In a shocking move that has left fans and analysts reeling, a seasoned sharpshooter with seven seasons in the NBA under his belt has decided to hang up his sneakers in the league. The news broke when Panathinaikos owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos revealed that the team had secured the services of wing Cedi Osman, bringing the Turkish native back to the EuroLeague to showcase his skills in Greece.
Formerly a key player for the Cleveland Cavaliers, Osman’s journey in the NBA has been filled with ups and downs. Drafted by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2015, he was traded to the Cavaliers in exchange for Tyus Jones before even setting foot on the court. It wasn’t until October 2017 that Osman finally made his debut, initially struggling to find his place in the team. However, he quickly evolved into a crucial role player for the Cavaliers, earning respect and admiration from fans and teammates alike.
Most recently, Osman plied his trade with the San Antonio Spurs, where he put up impressive numbers over the season. Averaging 6.8 points, 2.5 rebounds, and 1.7 assists in 72 games, Osman showcased his versatility and shooting prowess on the court. Shooting a career-high 47.9% from the floor and 38.9% from beyond the arc, he proved his worth as a valuable asset to any team.
Despite his successful stint with the Spurs, Osman expressed his desire to remain with the team as he approached free agency earlier this year. His loyalty and commitment to the organization were evident in his statements, where he mentioned being “really happy to play for the Spurs.” Unfortunately, a reunion between Osman and the Spurs did not come to fruition, leaving both parties with a sense of unfinished business.
Rumors swirled around Osman’s future, with reports suggesting that European powerhouse Real Madrid had shown interest in acquiring the sharpshooter. However, Osman’s heart seemed set on staying in the NBA, making his departure from the league even more surprising. Despite the disappointment of not reuniting with the Spurs, Osman left a lasting impression on the organization, with head coach Gregg Popovich praising him as “a team favorite” and “a lot of fun” to be around.
As Osman embarks on a new chapter in his basketball career with Panathinaikos, fans can only wonder what the future holds for the veteran sharpshooter. His time in the NBA may have come to an end, but his legacy and impact on the game will undoubtedly be remembered for years to come.
