Direktor bivše Cedevite Junior a sada Virtusa Zagreb: NCAA za nas nije problem nego financijska prilika

The former director of Cedevita Junior, now serving as the head of Virtus Zagreb, has stated that the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is not a challenge but rather a financial opportunity for the club. Tomislav Zebić, the club’s director, emphasized the importance of maintaining consistency with the club's strategy over the coming years, continuing to invest in the basketball hall as the best infrastructure in this part of Europe and remaining an incubator for young players. When the Executive Board of Cedevita Junior decided to archive its previous name and rename the club as Virtus Zagreb moving forward, questions arose regarding why such a change was made, especially considering the potential stability of the domestic basketball club. The answer came from Zebić himself, who explained that the decision was influenced by the strategic direction set by Atlantic Grupa, the owner of the Cedevita brand. Atlantic Grupa had decided to limit its sponsorship activities to the professional operation of the club based in Ljubljana. However, the group will continue to support the youth operations under the name Škole košarke by Cedevita, focusing on investment in working with children and young athletes. It was someone within the club, from Velebit, who suggested the name Virtus Zagreb. Zebić noted that the name sounds strong and alludes to basketball, embodying bravery, character, and integrity. It is memorable and aligns with the values the club wishes to instill in its DNA. Additionally, the name includes “Zagreb,” aiming to establish a connection with the city and location. Despite these changes, Zebić clarified that Atlantic Grupa’s traditional sponsorship model is not entirely disappearing. The company will continue to strongly support the youth program and the basketball school, while its involvement in the professional side will last another year. During this period, Neven Vranković, a leading figure within Atlantic Grupa, will remain as president of the club. Moreover, Atlantic Grupa leaves behind the basketball center on Velebit as part of its legacy. Zebić acknowledged that the withdrawal of the name Cedevita from Croatian basketball could be seen as a loss, given the brand’s history of five national championships. However, he stressed that while it is unfortunate, the focus must shift toward creating a new identity. He emphasized the importance of continuing to invest in existing infrastructure, particularly the basketball hall, which serves as a crucial prerequisite for attracting young talent. The club aims to maintain its role as an incubator for emerging players. With the current sponsorship agreement and usage rights of the facility not being permanent, Zebić expects the club to navigate the marketing landscape more independently. While the club’s sponsorship budget has always been diversified, not solely dependent on Atlantic Grupa, the transition will present challenges. Nevertheless, Zebić expressed confidence in the club’s ability to attract sponsors due to its recognition as the largest basketball school in the country and its reputation for having one of the top youth programs in the nation. This success is evident in the recent achievements, including three gold medals and one bronze in the younger age categories. Looking ahead, Zebić outlined plans for the club’s future, noting that the continuity of the team ensures a steady flow of young talents into the senior squad. At the U-20 Eurobasket, where the team secured its place in the A division, four players, Subašić, Škrobota, Ivančić, and Majdaka, are expected to become regular starters in the upcoming season. These players will be coached by Vladimir Krstić, whose partnership with the club will continue, along with his assistant coach Bariš Krasić. Other notable figures within the club include Zdravko Radulović, who will oversee the youth program and engage in individual work with players. Ivan Kapov remains the coach of the juniors and first team of Mladost. The new coach for the cadets will be Gordan Zadravec, known for his deep understanding of basketball and his successful playing career. Additionally, Veljko Mršić, a former player and coach of the trophy-winning Cedevita Zagreb team, continues to play a key role in the club’s operations.