Marinkovic Extends His Contract with Partizan until 2028

The Partizan Mozzart Bet has reaffirmed its commitment to Vanja Marinkovic with a renewal that ties the Serbian player to the Belgian club until 2028. The official announcement came on Tuesday, reaffirming the mutual commitment between the club and its veteran player, who underwent a complicated recovery process after suffering a serious Achilles tendon injury on January 23 during the match against Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv at the BMW Park.

At 29 years old and wearing the number 9 jersey, Marinkovic represents a key figure in the team's structure beyond what conventional statistics show. Last season, he played 19 games, starting in ten of them, averaging 5.9 points, 1.6 rebounds, 0.8 assists, and 0.5 steals per game, with a field goal percentage of 37.6%. His value extends beyond the numbers, rooted in the deep emotional and historical ties that bind him to Belgrade and the club's fans.

A career marked by the Euroleague and European success

The 6'6" shooting guard-small forward has played 179 games in the Euroleague, leaving his mark in a career that has seen him at top clubs across the continent. Prior to his return to Partizan in 2024, Marinkovic gained significant experience in Valencia and Bitci/Cazoo Baskonia, where he established a reputation as a versatile and committed player.

His return to Belgrade marked a turning point in the recent history of the Serbian team. Just two years after his comeback, Marinkovic has contributed to a period of noteworthy success for the club. In 2025, Partizan won the AdmiralBet ABA League and the AdmiralBet Basketball League of Serbia championships, solidifying the club's position in the Balkan and European basketball scene. This contract extension reflects the team's desire to maintain stability in its sporting project, recognizing the player's importance in achieving these goals.

Recovery and return to competition

The injury suffered against Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv forced Marinkovic to undergo surgery on his Achilles tendon, a long and meticulous recovery process. However, the club is confident that the player will return to action in prime condition. The announced agreement reflects that confidence in his recovery and his ability to continue contributing to Partizan's project in the coming years.

Currently on the path to recovery, Marinkovic is in a crucial phase of his return. Partizan has demonstrated patience and commitment to its star, a decision that underscores the player's importance to the team. His number 9 jersey will continue to symbolize dedication and commitment in Serbian basketball.

International presence and Serbia's golden generation

Besides his club successes, Marinkovic is a key figure in Serbia's golden generation. He holds a silver medal from the 2023 FIBA World Cup and a bronze medal from the 2024 Paris Olympics, highlighting his significance in international basketball. His experience and leadership have been vital in keeping Serbia among the world's basketball powerhouses.

Historically, Marinkovic became the youngest captain in Partizan's history, a milestone that reflects early recognition of his leadership qualities and ability to take on responsibilities in crucial moments. This renewal strengthens his legacy at the club, enabling him to continue writing important chapters in its history.

Future in the European scene and connection to the NBA

Although he has pursued his entire professional career in Europe, Marinkovic's NBA rights were recently traded to the Los Angeles Clippers. However, the player and Partizan’s priority is to maintain their joint project in Belgrade, where he has found a sporting and emotional home that transcends international offers.

The extension until 2028 signifies a long-term commitment that provides stability for both the player and the club. In a competitive European basketball landscape where retaining talent is constant, this renewal emphasizes the importance Partizan places on continuity and building a solid project. Marinkovic, with his Euroleague experience, international track record, and connection with the fans, is a cornerstone upon which the club aims to build its future in the upcoming years.

The faith placed in his recovery and the contract renewal testify to Partizan's belief that the player will return to his peak competitive level. With the number 9 jersey on his chest and the commitment to stay at home until the summer of 2028, Vanja Marinkovic continues to be a central figure in the club's plans.

This is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Marinkovic amplía su vínculo con Partizan hasta 2028