Budućnost Voli Sets Ambitious Goals for Upcoming Basketball Season

The president of Budućnost Voli, Dragan Bokan, unveiled the club’s ambitious goals for the upcoming basketball season during the traditional “Blue Night” event in Podgorica. He emphasized a commitment to victories, trophies, and forging a new chapter in the club’s history. “Budućnost Voli is not just a club; it is a team that breathes as one, a hall that pulsates with the rhythm of its fans, and a community that believes we can achieve great results together,” Bokan stated at the MTEL Moraca Hall, addressing players, coaching staff, club management, and media representatives.

As Budućnost Voli prepares for a challenging season in both the ABA League and the EuroCup, they have revamped their roster with significant additions. New players include Ukrainian point guard Oleksandr Kovlijar, American combo guard Skylar Mays, French forward Aksel Butej, and centers James Thompson from the USA and Gerry Butsijel from France. The team also secured contract extensions for point guard Jogi Ferel and center Juvan Morgan, while retaining key players like Rashid Sulejmon and Fletcher Magee.

In a notable shift, former Budućnost assistant coach Igor Đaletic returns to the team after seven years in Japan. He previously led Budućnost to two championships in Montenegro, and Bokan expressed confidence in Đaletic’s ability to inspire the current squad.

“Our players are ready. This is a team with the strength to inspire, the talent to surprise, and the heart to fight until the last moment,” Bokan remarked. “This season will be an opportunity to showcase the value of hard work, discipline, and faith in victory. I am confident that every match will demonstrate that Budućnost Voli plays with pride, for the club and for Montenegro.”

In addition to on-court developments, Budućnost Voli revealed new uniforms during the event, which players displayed as they took the stage.

Support from Sponsors and Community

Bokan highlighted the vital role that fans, partners, and sponsors play in empowering the club. “I would like to express my deep gratitude to our sponsors, including Stadion, Erste Bank, NLB Bank, and others who stand by us,” he said. The president also acknowledged the support from the Montenegrin government, specifically thanking Milojko Spajic, the Prime Minister of Montenegro, for recognizing the significance of sports for the nation.

Bokan further expressed appreciation for the media’s professionalism and the loyalty of the club’s fanbase, known as the Varvari. “They are our wind at our backs; their support makes victories even sweeter and helps us endure defeats.”

Upcoming Matches and Goals

Budućnost Voli is set to begin their official season with a match in the EuroCup against the London Lions on October 2, 2023. They will also participate in Group B alongside teams such as Turk Telekom, Burg, and Beşiktaş. The club is scheduled to host Subotica’s Spartak on October 5, 2023, for their first game in the ABA League.

Bokan concluded with a rallying call, stating, “Ladies and gentlemen, our goal is clear – victories, trophies, and a new history. What motivates us most is a sense of community. Every basket, every rebound, every victory belongs to all of you. It is time to be louder, braver, and stronger than ever. Let us show what it means to wear the blue jersey. Together – players, partners, fans, and friends – we will write a new page in our story.”

In a written message, president of the Gorštak basketball club, Dražen Drasković, expressed his regrets for not attending due to health issues, calling “Blue Night” a significant day for all basketball enthusiasts. He recognized Budućnost Voli as a powerful embodiment of basketball in Montenegro.

Tomorrow, Budućnost Voli will conduct their final pre-season check against city rivals SC Derbi at 19:30 in the House of Basketball in Kokoti. Both teams have played six friendly matches, with Budućnost securing four victories and SC Derbi recording a similar score.

As the season approaches, Budućnost Voli stands poised to make a significant impact on both domestic and international stages.