Aleksandar Vezenkov Named No. 1 Player Outside the NBA in Landslide Coaches' Vote

Bulgarian basketball star Aleksandar Vezenkov has earned major recognition across the Atlantic once again. The Bulgarian international was voted the best basketball player outside the NBA in the 25th annual survey conducted among the league's coaches.

This marks Vezenkov's second time topping the poll, but the margin of victory this year is historic—the Bulgarian blew away the competition, securing a staggering 77% of the vote. By comparison, he won with 44% last year, whereas this year's runner-up, Jonas Valančiūnas, garnered just 7%. Notable stars such as Nikola Mirotić, Kendrick Nunn, and Edy Tavares trailed far behind.

Vezenkov previously spent the 2023–24 season with the Sacramento Kings, where injuries and tactical decisions hindered his ability to showcase his full potential. Over the past season, however, he played a pivotal role in Olympiacos' EuroLeague run, captured the Greek league title and Greek Super Cup, and took home MVP honors for both the regular season and the finals.