In a move that surprised many, Ignas Brazdeikis has officially joined Olympiacos after signaling his departure from Lithuania just a day ago.
The signing comes as a longer-term commitment than initially expected, with a three-year deal in place. Additionally, the Lithuanian club, Zalgiris, will receive a transfer fee of 500,000 euros.
“At this point in the season, you never want to make significant changes. However, Ignas Brazdeikis expressed his desire to change his environment and join the ranks of a team that reached the EuroLeague final last season. Olympiacos contacted us and expressed their desire to reach an agreement. It was a difficult decision for us, but we are grateful to Ignas for everything he has done for our club,” stated Zalgiris Sports Director, Paulius Jankunas.
Αν και ταξίδεψε με διαφορετική πτήση, ο @_iggy_braz συναντήθηκε στο «Ελευθέριος Βενιζέλος» με την αποστολή του Ολυμπιακού και φωτογραφήθηκε με τον κόουτς, Γιώργο Μπαρτζώκα. Το νέο μεταγραφικό απόκτημα των «ερυθρολεύκων» θα περάσει το απόγευμα από ιατρικές εξετάσεις. #OlympiacosBC pic.twitter.com/7jKgcOI22X
— OLYMPIACOS BC (@Olympiacos_BC) September 24, 2023
Brazdeikis had signed a one-year contract with Zalgiris before the previous season, with an option for an extension. Therefore, Olympiacos will pay the aforementioned transfer fee to the Lithuanian team.
In his debut season in the EuroLeague, Brazdeikis averaged 11.6 points. He had previously notched 64 appearances in the NBA, playing for the Orlando Magic, New York Knicks, and Philadelphia 76ers.
In his new club, Brazdeikis will play under the guidance of a highly respected coach, and his initial impressions have him looking forward to the new chapter.
“I can’t wait to play for him. Olympiacos has always had a strong system, and I believe I can meet all the demands they place on me,” stated Ignas Brazdeikis.