Representatives for James Nanely have contacted KK Partizan regarding a potential return to the club, though the organization has yet to provide a formal response. According to reports from Mozzart Sport, the player’s agents reached out to both the club’s sport sector and president Ostoja Mijailović during the summer to signal that the 36-year-old shooter is available and interested in a return to Serbia.
As of July 22, 2026, no feedback from the club has been reported, leaving the status of a potential reunion uncertain.
Background and Departure from Belgrade
Nanely previously played for Partizan for two seasons, from 2022 to the summer of 2024, during which time he became a noted figure for the team under the leadership of coach Željko Obradović. During his tenure, he helped the club secure the 2023 AdmiralBet ABA League title and played a significant role in the team’s near-miss for a spot in the EuroLeague Final Four that same year.
His departure from the club in 2024 was marked by controversy following a physical altercation with Stefan Lazarević, who was then a player for Crvena Zvezda. The incident occurred in the corridors of the Belgrade Arena during the final playoff series of the 2024 AdmiralBet ABA League. Former Partizan sports director Zoran Savić has since suggested that the club’s handling of the situation following the altercation was an instance where the organization “erred” regarding the player.
Career Path Since Leaving Partizan
Following his exit from Belgrade, which served as his last EuroLeague engagement, Nanely continued his professional career abroad. He moved to China, where he won a national championship title. Most recently, he spent the previous season in Greece playing for AEK under the guidance of coach Dragan Šakota. In his time with the Greek club, Nanely was a key contributor during their run to the FIBA Champions League final.
Despite the circumstances surrounding his departure, Nanely has publicly expressed affection for his time in Belgrade. He has previously described the atmosphere and his experience in the city as a highlight of his career, often engaging with supporters on social media and praising the intensity of the club’s fanbase.
Current Team Context
The potential return of Nanely comes as Partizan navigates a period of roster changes.
Official activity regarding new signings has been limited. While the club has officially promoted the arrival of Kevarius Hayes, reports indicate that the team has been in discussions with other players, including Alessandro Pajola, Derek Willis, Nikola Tanasković, and Kyle Allman. The club previously missed out on several high-profile targets, including Armoni Brooks, Patty Mills, O’Shea Brissett, Zach LeDay, and Tyson Etienne.
Given the current state of the roster and the club’s ongoing search for reinforcements, industry observers note that a return for a player with Nanely’s history would not be entirely unexpected, though the lack of an immediate response from the management suggests that negotiations are not currently active.
Sources: B92, Sportske.net.
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