Bojan Bogdanovic Retires After 10 NBA Seasons: A Comprehensive Look at His Career and Legacy
Bojan Bogdanovic (Image via NBA)
Bojan Bogdanovic
, the accomplished Croatian forward, officially announced his retirement from professional basketball on June 29, 2025, concluding a ten-year NBA career that spanned six teams and was marked by consistent scoring, international pride, and resilience in the face of injury.
Bojan Bogdanovic's Early Life and European Success
Born in Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bogdanovic began his basketball journey in his homeland before quickly making a name for himself in European leagues. He played for top clubs including Real Madrid, Cibona Zagreb, and Fenerbahçe, winning league championships in both Croatia and Turkey. His European career set the stage for his transition to the NBA and established him as one of the most skilled forwards of his generation.
Bojan Bogdanovic's NBA Journey: Teams and Achievements
Bogdanovic was selected 31st overall in the 2011 NBA Draft by the Miami Heat, but his rights were traded to the
Brooklyn Nets
. He opted to remain in Europe for three more years before joining the Nets in 2014. Over the next decade, he played for:
- Brooklyn Nets (2014–2017)
- Washington Wizards (2017)
- Indiana Pacers (2017–2019)
- Utah Jazz (2019–2022)
- Detroit Pistons (2022–2024)
- New York Knicks (2024)
Bogdanovic was known for his offensive versatility, particularly his three-point shooting, finishing his career with an impressive 39.4% accuracy from beyond the arc.
He averaged 15.6 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 1.7 assists over 719 regular-season games, starting in 572 of them. His best statistical season came with the Detroit Pistons in 2022–23, when he averaged a career-high 21.6 points per game.
He made the playoffs seven times with five different teams, a testament to his value as a reliable scorer and veteran presence. Bogdanovic's ability to adapt to various team systems and roles made him a sought-after contributor throughout his NBA tenure.
Bojan Bogdanovic's International Career and National Pride
Bogdanovic was a stalwart for the Croatian national team, making his senior debut in 2010. He represented Croatia at two FIBA Basketball World Cups, five FIBA EuroBasket tournaments, and the 2016 Olympic Games. He was named to the FIBA EuroBasket 2013 All-Star Five after leading Croatia to the semi-finals, further cementing his legacy as one of his country's greatest basketball talents.
The Injury and Decision to Retire
Bogdanovic's final NBA season was derailed by a persistent left foot injury. After undergoing two surgeries and spending 14 months attempting to recover, he was unable to return to the court. The
New York Knicks
traded him to the Brooklyn Nets before the 2024–25 season, but he was waived and did not play another game.
In his retirement announcement, Bogdanovic reflected: "Sometimes in life, you don't choose the moment. The moment chooses you. After 14 months of battling a foot injury, two surgeries, and countless efforts to get back on the court, the time has come to close a chapter."
Bogdanovic retires at age 36 as one of the most successful European imports of his era. He was respected for his professionalism, basketball IQ, and ability to deliver in crucial moments.
His journey from Mostar to the NBA inspired many young players in the Balkans and across Europe.
In his farewell message, he expressed gratitude to teammates, coaches, medical staff, fans, and especially his family, emphasizing that basketball was not just a sport but an integral part of his identity. He concluded: "I'm closing this chapter, but my love for the game remains. I didn't reach the end. I've reached the other side of the beginning…"
Also read:
Malik Beasley Faces $42 Million Loss and Possible NBA Ban Amid Federal Gambling Probe
Bogdanovic's career stands as a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and the global nature of basketball. His impact will be felt both in the NBA and in international basketball circles for years to come.
Game On Season 1 continues with Mirabai Chanu's inspiring story. Watch Episode 2 here.
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