By Javier Molero/ jmolero@eurohoops.net
Ömer Yurtseven’s arrival at Real Madrid is now official. The Turkish center, who played for Panathinaikos this season, has signed with the club until June 30, 2026.
Real Madrid has issued an official statement announcing the arrival of the former NBA player. With Edy Tavares (knee) and Alex Len (plantar fasciitis) presumably out for the remainder of the season, Yurtseven arrives to help the team in the final stretch of the Spanish league season.
He also spoke to Real Madrid TV, now as a Real Madrid player. “I’m eager to show everything I can do and help this team win. The team already has its starting five set for positions 1 through 4, and this is the perfect opportunity for me to contribute as much help as I can during the playoffs, which are the most exciting time of the season. My goal is to win the ACB. Although I know they now have the EuroLeague Final Four ahead of them, I’m looking forward to playing in the Liga Finals,” he commented.
He took the opportunity to analyze his strengths and how he can help the team. “I think, above all, scoring in the paint and defending. Defense is going to be my main priority. Both defending the paint and the opponent’s pick and roll, especially with Sergio (Scariolo) as coach. Scoring in the paint is something I’ve been doing my whole life, and I think it will also be useful for the team because it’s something you need in today’s basketball,” he explained.
He revealed the reasons that led him to sign for Real Madrid: “There were many factors that influenced my decision, beyond the great history of this club. The first was being able to play in the playoffs and having the opportunity to be part of this key moment of the season. Also, the coach, the players they have, like Campazzo and Llull, who know how to pass the ball very well and create plays for everyone. In addition, their style of play is very fluid; they are playing very well and distributing the ball brilliantly. I’m eager to be part of that system,” the Turkish center explained.