Los Angeles Clippers guard Bogdan Bogdanovic, one of the most respected European exports in the NBA, has thrown his support behind fellow Serbian and Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul wingman Tarik Biberovic, stating that the young talent is more than capable of making the leap to the NBA. However, Bogdanovic believes there’s one crucial step Biberovic must take before heading to the world’s premier basketball league — winning the EuroLeague title with his current team.
During the All-25 EuroLeague Team media availability, Bogdanovic was asked about the readiness of Biberovic, and his response was both encouraging and grounded in expectation.
“He’s ready [for the NBA] because he’s talented and young,” Bogdanovic said. “But he needs to win here [with Fenerbahce] first. He can go after.”
The veteran guard didn’t hold back in his praise, pointing to Biberovic’s rapid development over the last few years as a clear indicator of his growing potential.
“His progress has been amazing the last couple of years and I hope he keeps working,” Bogdanovic added.
A product of Fenerbahce’s system, Biberovic has emerged as a key component of the Turkish powerhouse’s rotation this season. In 35 EuroLeague appearances, the 24-year-old averages 10.5 points, 3.1 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game, with a performance index rating (PIR) of 8.6. His versatility on the wing, ability to score off the dribble, and improving defense have drawn attention from NBA scouts and European fans alike.
Bogdanovic also acknowledged the comparisons being made between himself and Biberovic — a nod to their shared nationality, position, and Fenerbahce connection — but he humbly redirected the credit to the passionate fanbase.
“I have to say Fener fans are the best in the world and they are the only ones that can make that,” he said with a smile.
As for Biberovic, the player remains laser-focused on the task at hand — delivering a EuroLeague championship for Fenerbahce. Despite being drafted 56th overall by the Memphis Grizzlies in the 2023 NBA Draft and remaining under their control, the wingman has made it clear that any talk of the NBA will have to wait.
“I’m just hearing rumors,” Biberovic said in a recent interview. “To be honest, I told all my managers, agents, and whoever is dealing with the NBA teams that if there’s something about the NBA, until I finish the season, I don’t want to talk about it because I don’t want anything to distract me from my goal right now.”
His mature approach to the speculation surrounding his future speaks volumes about his professionalism and commitment to his current team. With Fenerbahce in the thick of the EuroLeague playoffs, Biberovic’s attention remains fixed on helping the team capture the title, something that would not only solidify his legacy in Europe but likely smooth his path toward a successful NBA career.
For now, fans and analysts will be watching closely to see if Biberovic can follow in Bogdanovic’s footsteps — not just in playing style, but in leaving Europe on a high note before taking on the challenge of the NBA.