Bojan Bogdanovic receives emotional farewell in Zadar
Emotional home send-off
Bojan Bogdanovic was honored with a heartfelt farewell before Croatia’s game against Latvia in Zadar. The ceremony took place at the Kre65imir 06osi07 Arena, where fans and teammates gave him a long standing ovation. Supporters in the crowd and players on the floor wore special shirts as a mark of respect for one of Croatia’s most significant basketball figures.
Career highlights and the decision to retire
Bogdanovic wore the Croatian jersey from 2010 through 2022, earning 139 caps and scoring roughly 2,200 points, which makes him the nation’s leading scorer. Internationally he appeared at two FIBA World Cups, five EuroBasket tournaments and the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio, where he finished as the tournament’s top scorer with an average of 25.3 points per game. He was also named to the EuroBasket 2013 All-Star Five after helping Croatia reach the semifinals.
Before moving to the NBA, Bogdanovic played for clubs including Zrinjski, Real Madrid, Murcia, Cibona and Fenerbahce. He was selected 31st in the 2011 NBA Draft and began his NBA career with the Brooklyn Nets in 2014. Over the years he also suited up for the Washington Wizards, Indiana Pacers, Utah Jazz, Detroit Pistons and New York Knicks, finishing his NBA run with averages around 15.6 points, 3.6 rebounds and 1.7 assists per game.
His retirement came earlier than many expected after a prolonged battle with a foot injury. Following 14 months of treatment and two surgeries, Bogdanovic announced his decision to step away from playing in June 2025, concluding a notable career at both club and international level. The farewell in Zadar gave Croatian fans one last chance to celebrate his contributions on home soil.
