Bogdan Bogdanović: ‘I’m very sad he made that decision’ on Željko Obradović’s resignation

Bogdanović reacts to Obradović’s departure

Serbia captain Bogdan Bogdanović said he was taken aback when Željko Obradović stepped down as Partizan’s coach. In a recent interview on the EuroLeague channel he described the decision as surprising but suggested that Obradović — given his experience — probably chose what he thought was best for both himself and the team.

Bogdanović added that he’s disappointed he won’t see Obradović finish the season on the sidelines, and that the coach’s exit naturally shifts more responsibility and pressure onto the players. Still, he believes such changes can sometimes spark something positive for a team.

Their history together and reactions from the basketball community

Bogdanović also spoke about Obradović’s deep connection to Partizan, saying the club has always meant a lot to him — even during their time together at Fenerbahçe. He praised Obradović’s love for the game and his insistence that players show real passion, which Bogdanović credits as a key to the coach’s success.

The pair enjoyed a fruitful partnership at Fenerbahçe, winning the 2017 EuroLeague crown and two Turkish league titles during Bogdanović’s three seasons with the club. Following the resignation, several figures from the basketball world shared their thoughts — noting the loss is significant for both Partizan and the wider European game, recalling strict team rules under Obradović, and underlining the respect he commands from former players and colleagues.