By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Dallas Mavericks have touched down in Macao, China. They face a preseason double-header against the Houston Rockets. For most, it is a routine international showcase. For rookie wing Tarik Biberovic, it is the next step in a long journey.
“I feel myself marinated,” he mentioned during a media session on Friday, when asked why now was the right time to move on from eight years with Turkish powerhouse Fenerbahce.
“I had the opportunity also last year. I actually gave up a lot to be here,” he admitted. “I had very good opportunities back over there, also from different NBA teams.”
“I’m ready for this challenge,” continued Biberovic. “I’m way more mature, and I know how to be on the court. I’ll give my best to earn every single minute of it.”
The 25-year-old shooter entered training camp as a seasoned EuroLeague champion. He is ready to lock in on the 2026–27 NBA Regular Season. This transition from Istanbul to Texas brings a new playbook and pace. While the speed of the NBA is high, the core fundamentals remain identical. Only the vocabulary requires an adjustment.
“It’s a new system, and I have to adjust for it, but it’s not so hard because the philosophy and the rhythm is a little bit faster, but the idea is the same,” he explained. “Terminology, it’s been a little bit different. We were talking about this just five minutes ago. He was saying some things, and for me, it’s like I’m hearing it for the first time. But it’s just like this is basketball, so it’s easy.”
Bringing physicality and IQ
The Mavs acquired his draft rights in July. They know his reputation. Biberovic established himself as a premier marksman in Europe. However, he understands that shooting alone will not guarantee minutes under Dusty May. He is fully focused on earning a permanent spot in the rotation this year.
“To stay on the court, you have to do multiple things. It’s an everyday fight,” he said. “We’re here together to make each other better, but still, you’re competing every single day, and that’s the beauty of it.”
“I have a good size, and I’m trying to bring the physicality, defense, rebounding, the high energy, also the basketball IQ, understanding the pace, helping players around me, trying to be that piece who’s going to lift the team,” he added.
The immediate focus shifts to the court in Macao for Friday and Sunday’s matchups. These games serve as a dress rehearsal. Biberovic needs to show his adaptation to the tempo before the squad returns home for two final exhibitions. The real test arrives quickly. The Mavericks tip off their 2026–27 Regular Season on October 21 at the Toyota Center against Houston.
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