By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Partizan Mozzart Bet head coach Joan Penarroya has provided an update on star point guard Carlik Jones, revealing that he has resumed full practices and is targeting a return to action next week.
Speaking with Serbian outlet Mozzart Sport, Penarroya projected that the 28-year-old South Sudanese international will suit up for the Round 29 of the 2025-26 EuroLeague Regular Season, opposite Fenerbahce Beko at the Ulker Sports Arena next Wednesday. Jones has been sidelined for nearly four months due to a fractured fifth metatarsal in his left foot. Before the injury, he was a vital engine for the team, averaging 11.4 points and 5.2 assists per game to start his second journey in Europe’s premier club competition.
His return is timely for Penarroya’s side, which currently sits at 9-19 in the EuroLeague standings. With only ten games remaining, Partizan is seven wins adrift of the Play-In Showdown zone, making every upcoming fixture critical. Beyond the injury update, the 56-year-old tactician confirmed the club is actively seeking roster reinforcements following the recent departures of Cameron Payne and Dylan Osetkowski.
The Belgrade outfit faces a high-pressure stretch as the domestic season intensifies with the Radivoj Korac Cup 2026 in Nis. Partizan opens the tournament against FMP in the Quarterfinals this Thursday at the Cair Sports Center. While the continental campaign remains a challenge, Penarroya has kept the team dominant regionally with a 16-1 record tied with Dubai for the top spot in the AdmiralBet ABA League Top 8.