By Cesare Milanti / info@eurohoops.net
When the 2024-25 season began, as the London Lions dropped from European competitions and got resized for ambitions and high-level players, Sam Dekker hadn’t found his place yet.
At the beginning of November 2024, something changed as Joventut Badalona recruited the experienced American forward on a one-month deal, which could have been extended later on.
Thanks to his valuable performances, he earned a deal which lasted until the end of the 2024-25 season, which concluded yesterday with Joventut Badalona’s elimination in the ACB Quarter-Finals, losing 2-0 to La Laguna Tenerife.
With a heartfelt message on social media, Dekker reflected on his experience in Spain. “Penyers, tonight sucked. I’m sorry about that. But since November this season is one I needed,” he opened.
“I was in a weird place in November, and Penya and all of Badalona embraced me on and off the court. We won a lot of games and had a lot of great moments. Some of the nights at Olimpic will give me goosebumps forever. Olivia, Wolf, and I thank you for everything this year.”
“We truly have loved every second here and hope to see you again. No matter what happens, this amazing place will be extremely special to us,” he ultimately said, leaving an open door for the future.
Since his move to Badalona, the 31-year-old forward has averaged 12.6 points, 4.0 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game, shooting 48.7 from two-point range, 40.9 on three-pointers, and 79.6 at the line.
Sam Dekker spent time in the NBA with the Houston Rockets, the Los Angeles Clippers, the Cleveland Cavaliers, and the Washington Wizards. Moving to overseas basketball, he played for Lokomotiv Kuban, Turk Telekom Ankara, Bahcesehir, London Lions, and ultimately Joventut Badalona.
PHOTO CREDIT: ACB Photo