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Hezonja renews his commitment with Real Madrid until 2029
His contract runs until 2029 with a buyout clause exclusive to the NBA
Mario Hezonja, a 31-year-old Croatian small forward, has solidified his position as one of the most dominant figures in elite European basketball since his arrival in the Spanish capital in 2022. Following the renewal of his five-year contract in 2024, he has become an essential pillar for the Madrid project, both in the EuroLeague and in the Endesa League.
Eurohoops sources confirm that the player from Dubrovnik will remain at the white club, as his contract includes a release clause that only allows his departure to the NBA. This contractual protection ensures that the Madrid team will keep their star in the European roster, unless an opportunity arises in the North American competition.
A Dream 2025-26 Season in the EuroLeague
The just-concluded season has been spectacular for Hezonja on the highest continental level. In 44 games played, 36 of which as a starter, the Croatian small forward recorded averages of 13.3 points, 4.0 rebounds, 2.4 assists, and 0.8 steals per game. These numbers reflect his consistency and defensive contribution in each of the European matches.
His contribution was crucial for Real Madrid reaching the Final Four in Athens, sponsored by Etihad, in the 2026 EuroLeague. With this participation in the continental final, Hezonja has increased his total matches played in the top European club competition to 230 games. The player already knows the feeling of lifting the European title, having won the EuroLeague with Real Madrid in 2023, solidifying his legacy in the competition.
Endesa League MVP in the Regular Season
Beyond his performance in Europe, Hezonja has achieved an extraordinary milestone in Spanish basketball by being named the Most Valuable Player of the Endesa League's regular season. In the domestic competition, the Croatian small forward excelled with averages of 17.5 points, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.9 assists per game in 31 matches played.
This individual recognition highlights his significance in Real Madrid's project and his ability to influence both competitions simultaneously. His offensive versatility and consistent performance have positioned him as one of the best players in the Endesa League in the current season.
Hezonja's commitment to Real Madrid represents the culmination of a career marked by demand and excellence. After his stint in the NBA between 2015 and 2020, where he played 335 games with the Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, and Portland Trail Blazers after being selected fifth in the 2015 Draft, the player chose Europe as his competitive destination.
Since his arrival in Madrid three years ago, the Dubrovnik small forward has evolved into one of the most reliable figures in European basketball. His ability to adapt to the intensity of the EuroLeague and his previous NBA experience make him an invaluable asset for the white team.
Beyond his successful club career, Hezonja remains a key figure in Croatia's national team since 2014. His continuity in the national team reflects his status as one of the best players in his country and his commitment to international representation.
The contractual structure linking Hezonja to Real Madrid until 2029 demonstrates the club's confidence in his quality and strategic importance. The exclusive release clause for the NBA indicates that both parties have reached an agreement to protect the interests of the white team, while keeping the door open for a potential opportunity in the North American competition.
At 31 years old, the Croatian small forward is at his peak competitive form, demonstrating that his previous NBA experience has allowed him to perfect his game in the European context. His stay in Madrid guarantees continuity in the club's sporting project for the years to come, solidifying a winning structure that has proven its effectiveness in both the EuroLeague and the Endesa League.
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