By Nikos Varlas/ varlas@eurohoops.net
Ante Zizic has a verbal commitment with Real Madrid, according to Eurohoops sources. He will be back as part of Turkish Airlines EuroLeague action penning a multiyear deal with the Whites after the termination of his contract with the Cleveland Cavaliers.
Eurohoops previously confirmed the Spanish powerhouse’s interest in the Croatian center ahead of the 2020-21 editions of EuroLeague and ACB. Zizic was also a potential target of another EuroLeague team, Maccabi FOX Tel Aviv.
The Croatian big was selected 23rd in the 2016 NBA draft by the Boston Celtics but was traded to the Cavaliers and joined the Cleveland organization one year later. He since played in 121 games including eight playoffs tilts in 2018.
Up to the decision to halt action due to the coronavirus pandemic, Zizic appeared in 22 matches of the 2019-20 season putting up 4.4 points and 3.0 rebounds per contest.
Prior to landing his NBA spot, he was featured in 20 EuroLeague games of the 2016-17 season as a member of Darussafaka. Added on his European club competition experience are his Basketball Champions League and FIBA EuroCup stints with Cibona.