By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
According to Serbian outlet Meridian Sport, Cameron Payne is returning to the NBA to rejoin the Philadelphia 76ers. The deal reportedly includes a $1.75 million compensation fee for Partizan Mozzart Bet.
Just months into his tenure with Partizan, the 31-year-old was ruled out of recent matchups, sparking uncertainty regarding his future with the Belgrade-based club. Based on Monday’s report, the veteran combo guard is now finalizing his transition back to the United States.
During his introduction to the EuroLeague, Payne appeared in ten games for Partizan, averaging 12.4 points, 3.9 assists, 2.3 rebounds, and 1.2 steals per contest. Additionally, he contributed 10.8 points, 3.8 assists, and 1.8 steals over five appearances in the AdmiralBet ABA League. However, his departure significantly thins the backcourt rotation for head coach Joan Penarroya as the team approaches critical continental fixtures and domestic trophy pursuits.
Payne, a standout product of Murray State, is a veteran of 549 NBA games, including 72 postseason appearances. He previously suited up for the Sixers during the latter half of the 2023-24 season. His extensive professional resume also includes stints with the Phoenix Suns, New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Chicago Bulls, Milwaukee Bucks, and Cleveland Cavaliers, spanning a decade from his selection as the 14th overall pick in 2015 through 2025. His return provides Philadelphia with established depth and playoff experience for the upcoming stretch run.
Meanwhile, Partizan focuses on the next challenge in the Radivoj Korac Cup, before resuming action in the EuroLeague and ABA.