Report: Croatian forward Michael Ružić cleared to participate in draft combine
Report: Croatian forward Michael Ružić cleared to participate in draft combine
NEWS: Joventut Badalona's Michael Ruzic has been cleared to attend the NBA Draft Combine and will be a full participant in the 5x5 scrimmages, agent Bill Duffy told ESPN.
Great opportunity for NBA teams to get eyes on the skilled 18-year old Croatian PF in Chicago. pic.twitter.com/BJ8UNyk1jT — Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 10, 2025
Croatian forward Michael Ružić has reportedly been cleared by his club in the Spanish League to participate in the 2025 NBA draft combine this week in Chicago, Illinois.
Ružić is averaging 3.2 points and 1.6 rebounds on 50% shooting from the field in 24 games this season with Joventut Badalona. He has scored in double figures three times, including a season-high 13 points on Oct. 13 against Casademont Zaragoza.
The 6-foot-11 standout was among the prospects invited to the combine, beginning on Sunday. But with three games remaining in its season, Ružić needed permission from Joventut Badalona to compete, which he was granted, according to Jonathan Givony of ESPN.
Ružić began the season projected to be a first-round pick this year, with his size, length, rebounding and ability to space the floor. He is viewed as one of the top international prospects after becoming one of the youngest players to start for Joventut Badalona.
The 18-year-old is now considered a possible second-round pick after missing three months due to a thumb injury. He has also seen a limited role since returning in January and has had inconsistent production over that time, finishing in double figures only once.
Ružić will now be able to showcase his overall skill set on the court in front of executives and coaches. He projects to be a prospect who can help his stock immensely with a strong showing, which will likely ultimately influence his decision to remain in the draft or stay in Spain.
The draft will occur June 25-26 at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.
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