Joffrey Lauvergne Reflects on NBA Regret and Lessons from Obradovic
Back at Partizan and a look back at the NBA
Joffrey Lauvergne returned to Partizan late in the 2025/26 season and is expected to be one of coach Joan Pe narroya’s center options for the coming campaign. His second stint at the club brings him full circle — he originally played for Partizan from 2012 to 2014 before moving on to Khimki and then spending four seasons in the NBA with the Denver Nuggets, Oklahoma City Thunder, Chicago Bulls and San Antonio Spurs.
Looking back, Lauvergne says leaving the NBA was something he regrets. He admits he was impatient earlier in his career and left while he still had time on his deal. Today he wishes he had been more patient and stayed in the league longer, saying he would tell his younger self to hold on and see what could have developed there. He also acknowledges he’s learned from those mistakes and is a lot calmer about the future now.
What he learned from Obradovic and his take on recent moves
While in Europe, Lauvergne played under Zeljko Obradovic and speaks highly of the coach’s distinct approach. He says Obradovic made him focus on doing things for his own growth rather than trying to please the club or the coach, and that the coach’s strict, businesslike style — not pretending to be friends — pushed players to perform.
Lauvergne also had thoughts on several surprising transfers around Europe this summer. He was puzzled by some players choosing paths that move them out of top continental competitions, but understands that athletes sometimes want a fresh start or a different environment. He mentioned a few big-name moves that caught his eye and noted how competitive clubs across Turkey, Greece and Italy continue to shake up the landscape.
All in all, Lauvergne’s return to Partizan comes with more experience and a different mindset: less impatience, lessons learned under strong mentors, and an eye on making the most of the next chapter in his career.
