Omer Yurtseven joined the Miami Heat in 2021 and quickly became a promising player. During his first season, he played 56 games, averaging 5.3 points and rebounds per game while shooting 52.6% from the field.
Sadly, a left ankle injury that needed surgery messed up his second season, limiting him to just nine games. He then signed with the Utah Jazz but was let go after one season despite performing well.
Reports from Europe suggest Yurtseven’s NBA career might be ending soon . At 26, heโs reportedly close to joining Panathinaikos in Greece, though he’s still hoping for an NBA team to offer him a spot for the upcoming season.
Future Prospects:
“According to Eurohoops sources, Yurtseven has agreed in principle to return to Europe for Panathinaikos,” EuroHoops reported. “He asked for a few days before finalizing the deal to check his last NBA chances.”
รmer Faruk Yurtseven has agreed in principle to return to Europe for Panathinaikos, asking a few days before finalising the deal to examine his last NBA chances. More on @EurohoopsTR & @Eurohoopsnet & @EurohoopsGR
— Buฤra Uzar (@bugrauzar24)
Yurtseven had caught the eye of the New York Knicks recently. Marc Stein mentioned on his Substack that he worked out with Tom Thibodeau’s team, but they decided not to sign him.
“The Knicks recently auditioned free agent big man Omer Yurtseven but did not elect to sign him,” Stein reported. “Panathinaikos of Greece has publicly stated interest in bringing Yurtseven to the EuroLeague.”
Fans might feel this move is unexpected given his initial promise with Miami Heat.
If no NBA team steps up soon, Yurtseven will likely head to Greece this season. Playing in Europe could help him regain value and maybe find a way back into the NBA later on.
Yurtseven can look at Guerschon Yabusele for inspiration. After struggling in the NBA, Yabusele moved to European leagues and recently signed with Philadelphia 76ers after shining at the Paris Olympics.
So moving back doesnโt mean it’s over for his NBA dreams; it could be another path forward! What do you think about this twist?
