By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
On his 57th birthday, Sasa Obradovic is focusing on the Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet and the next game on the 2025-26 EuroLeague Regular Season schedule, opposite Dubai in Belgrade Arena on Friday.
He provided several roster updates, including Tyson Carter (chest) resuming workouts for the first time since a serious health issue early in the 2025-26 season. Another player dealing with a long-term injury is Jasiel Rivero (foot).
“Carter has started training, while Rivero is in the second phase. I do not know when to expect them back,” mentioned Obradovic during a pregame media session on Thursday.
The head coach of the team based in the Serbian capital also confirmed that Devonte’ Graham is currently away from the team.
“His status is open. I am waiting to see what the issue eventually is. He was not with the team in practice,” said Obradovic.
With Uros Plavsic (shoulder) and Isaiah Canaan (knee) also out, all remaining players are available, including Joel Bolomboy, who will perhaps resurface in Europe’s premier club competition for the first time since last March and the Lisfranc injury.
“Everyone is ready and wants to play. We will see with the rotation,” confirmed Obradovic.
On the team coached by Jurica Golemac, Mouhammadou Jaiteh (Achilles) and Nate Mason (back) remain sidelined, with Davis Bertans (calf), Bruno Caboclo (back), Boogie Ellis (hamstring), and Kosta Kondic (groin) also dealing with injuries over recent team outings.
Entering Round 25, Zvezda sits inside the Play-In Showdown zone with a 14-10 record, one game from the top six seeds and a direct ticket to the Playoffs 2026, and three games safe from elimination, ahead of Dubai’s 11-13 and two more teams tied in 11th place.