Mario Hezonja doesn't plan to return to the NBA: 'It's more of a show than the game itself' / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: Reuters - Scanpix Credit Reuters - Scanpix

Croatian swingman Mario Hezonja left the NBA during the 2020-2021 season after being waived by the Memphis Grizzlies. According to a recent interview he gave to a Russian outlet, he doesn't plan to return to the NBA anytime soon.

"No, I'm not going to return to the NBA", Hezonja stated. "There was a lot I didn't like there, I didn't get the respect that I deserved".

The Croatian player, who remains under contract with Russian side UNICS Kazan, also highlighted the fact that he doesn't like the style of play of the NBA.

"In my opinion, the NBA is more of a show than the game itself", Hezonja added.

Hezonja was drafted by the Orlando Magic back in 2015 with the fifth pick overall. He spent three seasons in Orlando but without leaving a great impact on the team.

During his NBA career, Hezonja also played for the New York Knicks and the Portland Trail Blazers. During the 2020-2021 season, he was traded by the Blazers to the Memphis Grizzlies but he was immediately waived after the trade.

Since his return to Europe, Hezonja has played for Panathinaikos and UNICS Kazan.

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