Red Star Speaks Out on Kalinić! New Club Role Officially Confirmed

The club's official statement on the matter is provided in full below.

"Kalina" dedicated a significant portion of his playing career and his prime years to our Crvena zvezda, helping the club reach new heights and secure numerous trophies! Red Star fans, and indeed all basketball enthusiasts across Europe and Serbia, know what Nikola Kalinić brought to the court: He was a player who gave his all, delivering points, rebounds, assists, self-sacrifice, fighting spirit, tough defense, and a deep understanding of the challenges and joys of wearing the Crvena zvezda jersey.

Nikola Kalinić was born on November 8, 1991, in Subotica. He began his career there as a Spartak player, later playing for Radnički, Vojvodina, Fenerbahçe, Valencia, Barcelona… and Crvena zvezda, where he had three stints (287 games, 2646 points).

He won two triple crowns and two Radivoj Korać Cups, alongside countless unforgettable moments, starting with the three-pointer in Game 3 of the ABA League playoff semi-finals against Partizan, which ignited a 12-0 run. Then there was the three-pointer in an empty Pionir Arena during Game 5 of the 2022 playoff finals, and his unforgettable first half in Milan last season, where he did everything in 20 minutes, galvanizing the entire team and reminding everyone of his immense talent and impact.

A career that saw him win the EuroLeague in 2017 and be named the player of the final game, along with 19 other club and individual trophies, and silver medals at the World Cup and Olympic Games (2014 and 2016) – now concludes in red and white!

His new coaching career also begins with his beloved Crvena zvezda!!!

Nikola Kalinić will, starting next season, in accordance with the agreement reached between club president Željko Drčelić, new coach Ibon Navarro, and Nikola – serve as one of the coaches on the KK Crvena zvezda staff, thus remaining an integral part of his club – Crvena zvezda!

His experience, basketball knowledge, and winning mentality will be invaluable to the first team and the entire club.

Kalina, thank you for everything, for every point, every trophy, and every drop of sweat you gave to Crvena zvezda. We wish you the best of luck in your new beginning in red and white!

KK Crvena zvezda Meridianbet