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PAOK secured a dramatic victory with a last-second three-pointer from Marcus Foster (100:99). Osman delivered a standout performance for the Thessaloniki side, contributing 25 points.
It was an exciting game. I believe we played well, and it's always a good test to face a EuroLeague team like Partizan. We also played against Milan before this, so we've had opportunities to gauge where we stand. We've shown we can compete with anyone. I think we've demonstrated significant potential. This was a great game for both teams. It's a good warm-up match; of course, we don't gain anything tangible from this, but it's important to win and see what we're capable of against EuroLeague opponents. Džedi Osman
PAOK made significant moves this summer, and with their roster, they are immediately considered among the favorites to win the EuroCup.
I think it's still too early to talk about that. Of course, our goal is to win, but we're taking it game by game. We need to work hard; there's still a lot of work ahead of us, and we're moving forward. We have an excellent coach, everything is set up perfectly for us, so it's just up to us to put in the effort.
His transfer from Panathinaikos and the EuroLeague to PAOK and the EuroCup was one of the biggest surprises this summer, and the Turkish international explained his decision.
It was a tough summer. It wasn't easy, but I spoke with Coach Trinkijeri, I spoke with the president, and they truly showed a great, great desire to bring me in and have me at this club. Their biggest goal is to be in the EuroLeague, so that really attracted me.
A crucial factor for him was the promise of greater freedom and a role that suited him.
Crucially, I have a lot of freedom and the chance to be a leader on the team. That was one of the most important things for me. They showed great desire, and that also heavily influenced my decision.
He now shares the locker room with Nick Calathes, a former Partizan player and the EuroLeague's all-time assist leader, who continues to amaze teammates with his on-court magic. Calathes captivated Osman, the public, and especially PAOK fans, with his assist for the game-winning basket against Partizan.
You saw that behind-the-back pass in the final seconds... I told him he was crazy. He saw Marcus open in the corner; I mean, truly... Not every point guard can do that. I'm glad he's with us.
Calathes isn't the only link between Partizan and this year's PAOK squad; there's also coach Andrea Trinkijeri, and Osman himself, who didn't object when Serbian journalists repeatedly noted his affection for the Belgrade club.
Of course, they know Partizan better than I do. Niki played there last year, and having Calathes on the team is truly a great luxury.
VIDEO: Lessort and Obradović chat with Partizan staff
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