From 2010 to 2014, guard Bogdan Bogdanovic played for Partizan Mozzart Bet of the EuroLeague. This is where he began his playing career before ultimately declaring for the NBA Draft in 2014. The Serbian native enjoyed a solid career with Partizan, becoming a four-time Serbian League champion. Furthermore, he was a two-time Serbian Cup winner with Partizan and took home the Serbian League Playoffs MVP award in 2014. Now, Bogdanovic is a key role player for the Atlanta Hawks. However, this has not stopped discussions regarding when he may return to Partizan.
Recently, Bogdanovic was seen wearing the gear of his former Partizan club. This sparked conversations about a potential comeback. However, Bogdanovic made it clear that this is not an option for now. In an interview with Mozzart Sport, per BasketNews, the Hawks guard said his “focus is now on [the] NBA.” However, Bogdanovic left the possibility of a return to Partizan open in the future.
“I just wanted to send support to the team where I started my professional career. We all know how much I love Partizan, I practiced in their hall, they gave me conditions for practicing, that’s how I wanted so send a message that I’m thankful for that,” Bogdanovic said.
“I know people want me back in Partizan, but my focus is now on NBA, I won’t lie. I want to impress there in best way possible. And when it is time to come back, I’m sure emotions will make the judgement.”
The 32-year-old still has three years remaining on his four-year, $68 million contract extension. This includes a $16 million team option for the 2026-27 season.
Bogdan Bogdanovic Speaks About Potential Return to Partizan
Bogdan Bogdanovic’s Role With the Atlanta Hawks
Bogdanovic is entering his entering his fifth season with the Hawks. As a member of the Hawks, Bogdanovic has been great. Last season, he averaged a career-high 16.9 points per game while shooting 42.8% from the field and 37.4% from the three-point line. Additionally, he averaged 3.4 rebounds, 3.1 assists, and 1.2 steals per game. Because of his impressive campaign, Bogdanovic received four first-place votes for Sixth Man of the Year. Ultimately, he finished in fifth place. At this point, Bogdanovic has developed a reputation as one of the best bench players in the league. However, the Hawks went through some major changes on the roster this summer. This should impact Bogdanovic’s role with the team.
This offseason, the Hawks traded Dejounte Murray to the New Orleans Pelicans. With his departure, expectations are that Bogdanovic will slide into the starting shooting guard spot full-time. Bogdanovic has not been a regular starter since joining the Hawks. However, he should be able to slide into this role seamlessly.
The Last Word
The Hawks finished the 2023-24 season with a 36-46 record. This was their worst finish since the 2019-20 season. They added some major names in the offseason–most notably, the No. 1 overall pick of this year’s draft, Zaccharie Risacher. Currently, the Hawks are likely to finish no better than the middle of the pack in the Eastern Conference again next season. Regardless, there is a lot to be excited about as the Hawks prepare for training camp, which is set to begin on October 1.
