Only Duško Vujošević could inspire a rival to wear a Partizan scarf in the Arena: Such respect had to be earned

Pulse Sports Team 23:23 - 10 April 2026

The true greatness of Duško Vujošević, it seems, was fully revealed by his passing. He left an indelible mark on Partizan, Serbian, and European basketball, and now, all who shared his values, his passion for the black and white colors, for the game of basketball, or for sports in general, are paying their respects.

Duško Vujošević bravely battled a severe illness for years, but on Wednesday, it ultimately claimed him. The true extent of this loss will only become clear with time.

He leaves behind an immense legacy and numerous trophies won with Partizan. More importantly, he nurtured and developed a multitude of players, shaping their careers.

Some of these players gathered at the Belgrade Arena this evening to pay their respects.

The atmosphere in the arena was incredibly emotional during the Žalgiris vs. Partizan game, as fans bid farewell to their legend. Among those present were his former players, numerous admirers, and even Ofer Janay, president of Hapoel Tel Aviv.

Janay, wearing a Partizan scarf, entered the largest arena, symbolically demonstrating his respect for the late coach and his contributions to basketball.

The pre-game ceremony was deeply moving. People wept while watching a film about the coach, chanting his name and singing the famous "I love the black and whites." Even the current team captain, Vanja Marinković, was visibly emotional.

I had a special relationship with him during that short period. He was the best coach of my career, someone I am most grateful to for who I am today. I'm glad I saw him before this injury. He was, if not the first, then among the first to call me. That speaks volumes about him.Vanja Marinković

Vanja was one of many who dreamed of working with the legend, and he was fortunate enough to see that dream come true.

It was a dream all of us kids had, to have him as our coach. That dream came true for me. Dule is the most deserving person when it comes to my career, no one else. And for me, and for other players like Novica, Milenko, Gagi, Luča, Bogdan, Jan, Joffrey, Bertans, Boris... These are just the guys I started with, who moved on. That's just ten names, there are hundreds more. He was dedicated to all of us, both on and off the court, which I think is more important.Vanja Marinković

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VIDEO Heartbreaking: Black and White Fans Bid Tearful Farewell to Duško Vujošević

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