Dario Šarić has officially signed a 2+1 contract with Anadolu Efes, marking the Croatian forward’s return to the Istanbul-based club after a nine-year tenure in the NBA. The move, confirmed by the team on June 16, 2026, fills the roster vacancy left by Rolands Šmits, reuniting the veteran player with the organization where he began his professional ascent.
Why NBA veterans are returning to the EuroLeague
The return of players like Šarić highlights a growing trend of seasoned NBA contributors seeking expanded roles in elite European competitions. According to Anadolu Efes, the decision to bring back a player who previously secured a Turkish championship in 2015 reflects a strategy of prioritizing experienced frontcourt stability. While Šarić averaged 10.3 points and 5.3 rebounds across 498 NBA appearances, his limited usage during his final season with the Sacramento Kings—where he appeared in only five games—illustrates the shifting priorities for players who have spent nearly a decade in the American league.
How the 2014 Draft legacy shaped Šarić’s career
Šarić’s path to Istanbul was paved by a complex history of draft-day movement. Originally selected 12th overall by the Orlando Magic in 2014, he was immediately traded to the Philadelphia 76ers for Elfrid Payton. Data from his career shows that he resisted an immediate move to the U.S., choosing instead to develop in Turkey for two years. This period proved critical, as it allowed him to capture both the Turkish Cup and the Presidential Cup before transitioning to the NBA, where he eventually suited up for seven different franchises, including the Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, and Golden State Warriors.
What happens next for the Anadolu Efes frontcourt?
By securing a 2+1 deal, Anadolu Efes has locked in a versatile forward capable of anchoring both the interior and the perimeter. The club’s decision to replace Rolands Šmits with a player of Šarić’s pedigree indicates a focus on high-IQ basketball. Historically, players who return to their former European clubs after extensive NBA exposure bring a higher level of defensive discipline. The success of this transition will rely on how quickly Šarić recalibrates to the more physical, tactical pace of the EuroLeague compared to the high-possession environment of the NBA.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How long is Dario Šarić’s new contract?
The contract is structured as a 2+1 deal, meaning two guaranteed seasons with an option for a third. - Which NBA teams has Šarić played for?
His NBA career includes stops at the 76ers, Timberwolves, Suns, Thunder, Warriors, Nuggets, and Kings. - Why did he leave the NBA?
While no specific reason was cited, his limited playing time—only five games in his final season with Sacramento—suggests a desire for a more consistent role on the court.
What do you think of this roster change? Does the return of veteran talent help or hinder the development of younger players in the EuroLeague? Join the conversation in the comments below or subscribe to our newsletter for the latest basketball transfer news.
