Petrušev transfer, injury and Zvezda's NBA talks

Filip Petrušev moved to Dubai Basketball Club after limited offers and a serious knee injury that curtailed his ABA League playoff appearances. He helped Dubai win its first title and spoke about a third‑degree cartilage injury that required injections, medication and two months of rehab. Petrušev credited the demanding training regime and strict disciplinary code imposed by former Crvena Zvezda coach Duško Ivanović for his development and for his decision to sign abroad.

In July 2026, Crvena Zvezda president Željko Drcelić confirmed ongoing discussions with the NBA about a potential NBA Europe league. He stressed that any agreement must guarantee Serbian clubs clear franchise rights, revenue sharing and protect the club’s priority of securing a long‑term EuroLeague licence with its associated TV and commercial revenues. Drcelić also noted the club’s realistic ambition to reach the ABA League final‑four while competing against rivals with larger budgets.

Drcelić recalled an informal “gentleman’s agreement” with NBA forward Nikola Vučević, leaving the door open for Vučević should he become free of NBA obligations. Petrušev reiterated the strict disciplinary system under Ivanović, describing a detailed rulebook covering training attendance, dress code and conduct, with monetary fines for violations. He added that former NBA player Džabari Parker would likely have been sanctioned under those rules, and observed that a similar system operates in Dubai.