Lonnie Walker IV said Kendrick Nunn played a key role in helping him adapt to European basketball after he signed with Maccabi Tel Aviv in August. Speaking to Eurohoops on September 21, the former Lakers teammates recalled their 2022/23 season together and how Nunn’s experience overseas influenced Walker’s move.
“He’s shown that it’s possible,” Walker noted, adding that Nunn’s success has made other prime-age Americans more comfortable exploring EuroLeague opportunities. Walker spent the first part of last season with Zalgiris Kaunas before rejoining the NBA in February with the Philadelphia 76ers. He now hopes his own path, alongside Nunn’s, will encourage a “domino effect” of U.S. players considering Europe.
Osman Expected for Panathinaikos Opener
Former NBA forward Cedi Osman sustained an ankle injury during Turkey’s quarterfinal win over Poland at EuroBasket but continued playing as the team secured the silver medal. Panathinaikos coach Ergin Ataman said Osman is undergoing treatment in Athens and is projected to rejoin practice two to three days before the club’s EuroLeague opener.
Graham Impresses Early with Crvena Zvezda
Crvena Zvezda coach Ioannis Sfairopoulos praised offseason addition Devonte’ Graham, who arrived in August after a G League campaign. Sfairopoulos acknowledged the guard will need time to adjust to European play but expects him to be “one of our main players” and perform at a level comparable to his best NBA seasons.
Germany Climbs to No. 2 in FIBA Rankings
Germany’s EuroBasket championship elevated the national team to second place in FIBA’s World Rankings. The United States remains No. 1 after winning gold at the 2024 Olympics. Serbia, France, and Canada complete the top five.
Source: Hoops Rumors
