Few figures in European basketball carry as much weight as Svetislav Pesic. The legendary coach has dedicated his entire life to the sport, first as a player—winning the European Cup in 1979 with Bosna Sarajevo—and then as a head coach at both club and international levels, amassing an incredible collection of titles and achievements. He led Yugoslavia’s junior team to a world championship in 1987, with one of the most brilliant generations in history, and won EuroBasket 1993 with Germany. In 2002, he guided Yugoslavia to the FIBA World Championship in Indianapolis, a year after conquering Europe with his native country. With Serbia, he finally secured one of the few medals missing from his collection at the 2024 Olympic Games, led by Nikola Jokic. He was also responsible for Barcelona’s EuroLeague title in 2003 (the first in club history), the Korac Cup in 1995 with Alba Berlin, and success with Akasvayu Girona.
Despite this immense, experience-filled resume, the basketball legend—one of the most important figures in European basketball—remains remarkably gracious. Now based in Munich, Pesic spoke with AS by phone to reflect on his career, dive into his memories, and discuss his latest honor: induction into the Spanish Basketball Hall of Fame. His two stints with Barcelona, along with his time at Girona and Valencia, make him a worthy recipient of this recognition. The coach shares some of the most incredible moments he has experienced, with a mix of nostalgia, pride, and enthusiasm.
**What does it mean for you to enter the Spanish Basketball Hall of Fame?**
Entering the Hall of Fame is a great recognition for me. I am very proud. Years ago, I entered the FIBA Hall of Fame, and now entering Spain’s Hall of Fame is certainly a very important day for me. I feel it is not only due to results, but also to what I have contributed to basketball in general, even off the court. I have conducted numerous coaching clinics around the world, helping other coaches, especially young ones—something I have done in every country where I worked as a coach. I have responsibilities with FIBA to improve the profession at various stages around the world and across Europe. This is a great recognition in Spain, having been with teams like Barcelona and Valencia, but also having passed through different clubs in Yugoslavia, Serbia, and Germany. No more, no less (laughs).
**Has basketball changed a lot since your beginnings as a player until now?**
Yes, it has changed a lot. Basketball is a sport where you can see great evolution. Not only athletically or individually technically, but also from a tactical point of view. The rules we have, for example, have changed a lot. Until 1984, at the Los Angeles Olympics, we did not have a three-point line. And that line was set at 6.25 meters. That change was a true revolution. It changed the way we understand defense and offense. Another important change was when possessions went from 30 to 24 seconds. Now the game is much faster. And now that has been increased again. Another example of change is that players no longer have to take the ball…
