Anadolu Efes has secured a major signing for the upcoming season with the addition of Dario Saric. The 32-year-old Croatian power forward, standing 6'10", returns to the Turkish club, where he previously played between 2014 and 2016, after an extended stint in the NBA.
Saric returns to Europe after stints with the Philadelphia 76ers, Minnesota Timberwolves, Phoenix Suns, Oklahoma City Thunder, Golden State Warriors, Denver Nuggets, and Sacramento Kings, his last team in the North American league. His return represents a significant reinforcement for Pablo Laso's project, adding a player with experience, offensive talent, and the ability to fill multiple roles in the frontcourt.
The Croatian enjoyed some of his best NBA moments with Philadelphia, where in the 2017/18 season he averaged 17.2 points, 7.3 rebounds, and 3.5 assists. He also appeared in the 2021 NBA Finals with the Phoenix Suns, which fell to the Milwaukee Bucks 4-2.
A regular international player for Croatia, Saric has competed in EuroBasket, the World Cup, and the Olympic Games, in addition to winning titles in youth categories with his national team. Now, his return to Anadolu Efes strengthens the Turkish club's ambitions as it seeks to regain prominence in the EuroLeague following a challenging season marked by roster changes and injuries.