By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
CSKA Moscow announced the addition of Nikola Milutinov on Tuesday. The Serbian center inked a three-year contract, as previously reported by Eurohoops.
“After five years with Olympiacos, it was time for new chapter in my basketball life,” he said upon signing his contract, “So far in my career, all the decisions I’ve made were more or less difficult, but not this one. A club with great tradition, a president who lives for his team, a trophy coach, a great organization, powerful and beautiful Moscow.”
The 25-year-old Serbian center joined Olympiacos back in 2015 following his three-year stint as a member of the Partizan NIS squad. Between the two clubs competed in 164 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague matches.
“I am honored to be a player of CSKA Moscow and aware of the responsibility and goals that this famous name carries!” he mentioned regarding his third team in Europe’s premier club competition, “I can’t wait for a new beginning, see you soon in Moscow!”
CSKA targeted completing his transfer last summer, as his agent had confirmed, but Milutinov stayed with the Reds for one more season. He put up 10.3 points, 8.2 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per EuroLeague game until the early conclusion of the 2019-20 season.
“Playing for Olympiacos, great team, under great coaches, Nikola showed that he is one of the most significant big men in Europe,” noted his new head coach, Dimitris Itoudis, “When we talked, he noted that he has the highest motivation to defend CSKA colors, to prove it to our fans.”
His career so far features titles in Serbia, Greece, and the ABA League. He has also represented Serbia at every junior level and eventually played for the senior team. In addition, he was picked 26th overall in the 2015 NBA draft by the San Antonio Spurs since retaining his NBA rights.
“Nikola will be playing on the same position where many great big men played, so he steps into demanding position,” said Itoudis on the next step for Milutinov, “He is thrilled and ready to accept the challenge. I am sure he will be ready, and may God keeps him healthy. We wait for a chance to work together.”
Apart from extending his successful EuroLeague run, the newest addition for the Russian powerhouse will debut in the VTB United League.
Following the move to CSKA, Milutinov addressed the Olympiacos supporters via an Instagram post. “Piraeus is not the only port, but for me the safest. Athens is not the only city but for me the most beautiful. Olympiacos is not the only club, but my favorite. I have matured with you. I fell in love here. It is not the end. It is not the end.” he wrote.