Fournier Targets 2028 Retirement, Mamukelashvili Interested in Future NBA Europe Stint, Queta Set for Pay Bump, Scouts Eye NCAA Standouts
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Evan Fournier said he expects to hang up his sneakers when his deal with Olympiacos expires in 2028. In an interview with L’Equipe, the 33-year-old guard/forward, who spent 12 seasons in the NBA from 2012 to 2024, added that he would consider suiting up for France at the 2027 FIBA World Cup and the 2028 Olympics if selected.
Mamukelashvili Keeps NBA Focus but Likes Europe Option
Sandro Mamukelashvili, now with the Raptors, told Ric Bucher on the “Full Court Passport” YouTube show that he intends to remain in the NBA in the near term but is intrigued by finishing his career overseas, particularly in the proposed NBA Europe league. “The talent will be there, and I think it’s going to compete with college and even the NBA,” the Georgian big man said.
Queta, Others Drawing Attention for Breakout Years
John Hollinger of The Athletic highlighted Celtics center Neemias Queta, Heat forward Pelle Larsson and Cavaliers swingman Jaylon Tyson as under-the-radar contributors having strong seasons.
Contract Projections for Minimum-Salary Surprises
Yossi Gozlan of The Third Apron projects that Mamukelashvili and Queta, both currently on minimum deals, could see sizable raises this summer. Gozlan estimates Mamukelashvili could command a first-year salary of $8–10 million, while Queta’s next contract is expected to start at least at the value of the non-taxpayer mid-level exception (more than $15 million).
Prospects to Watch in the NCAA Tournament
Sam Vecenie of The Athletic listed nine players he is eager to follow during March Madness. The group includes projected top-five picks Cameron Boozer (Duke) and AJ Dybantsa (BYU), along with later first-round prospects Braylon Mullins (UConn), Chris Cenac Jr. (Houston) and Amari Allen (Alabama).
The NCAA Tournament begins this week, while NBA free agency opens July 1, positioning several of the names above for busy off-seasons on and off the court.
Source: Hoops Rumors
