The search of VTB United League teams for new superheroes enters its decisive stage in August. Clubs actively continuing their offseason. Here are the latest signings.
Zenit
Key signings: Andre Roberson (ASVEL, France), Levi Randolph (Maccabi Tel Aviv, Israel)
Andre Roberson was once an important player for Oklahoma City Thunder, which nearly stopped the Warriors’ 73-9 team in the Playoffs. Andre played his way to a decent contract – $30 million for 3 years – but a serious injury ended his NBA career. Roberson’s reincarnation happened in France, where the forward started last season with Cholet and finished with Euroleague club ASVEL. His ability to defend at the elite level and delight everyone with his athleticism is still intact. In August, the American not only found a new team, but also married social media star Rachel DeMita.
Basketball traveler Levi Randolph (USA, New Zealand, Italy, France, Belgium, Israel) moved to St. Petersburg from Maccabi Tel Aviv. Last season in the Euroleague, the guard averaged 12.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 1.8 assists. The experienced player is expected to play an important role in renewed Zenit, which is clearly aiming for revenge after loss in last season Finals.
UNICS
Key signing: C.J. Bryce (AEK, Greece)
At the end of the previous season, C.J. Bryce had 56.6% three-pointers made, even though his signature move is a mid-range shot. UNICS newcomer also does well in the post, where he pushes his opponents away with his back. The American will certainly help Velimir Perasovic improve the team and will also join the rebounding battles. With such a skill set, C.J. seems to be a replacement for Marcos Knight, the hero of recent years who left Kazan team.
PARMA
Key signings: Mikel Hopkins (Fukushima Firebonds, Japan), Jalen Adams (Hapoel Holon, Israel), Terrell Carter (Igokea, Bosnia and Herzegovina)
Mikel Hopkins already played in the VTB League in the 2023/24 season, when he represented Enisey. His averages were close to a double-double: 10.7 points, 7.1 rebounds, and 1.0 blocks. The Perm team fans will also be pleased to know that the experienced power forward had 38.7% three-pointers made with 3.2 attempts per game.
Jalen Adams will lead the Perm team offense. The guard has experience playing in the Euroleague for Maccabi Tel Aviv. In addition to his passing skills, the American is known for his three-point shooting, which he uses very often. With these 2 newcomers, PARMA opponents will have a difficult task.
Terrell Carter played center in the Adriatic League last season, where he was twice named MVP in the regular season. He had reliable field-goal percentage – 62.6%.
Enisey
Key signing: Mikhail Vedishchev (Lokomotiv Kuban)
Mikhail Vedishchev made his debut at the elite level last season with his first team Loko. The guard failed to make a big splash right away, although he did play in 29 games with almost 10 minutes, averaging 4.3 points and 1.7 assists. A loan to Krasnoyarsk could be an excellent springboard for the young player, as it will give him more opportunities to showcase his abilities and attract public attention.
Samara
Key signings: Evgeny Minchenko (MBA-MAI), Nikita Mikhailovskii (CSKA), Danila Pokhodiaev (Astana, Kazakhstan), Gleb Sheiko (MBA-MAI), Dmitriy Cheburkin (PARMA, Russia)
After completely rebuilding its roster in recent weeks, Samara has formed the core of a new team. In the upcoming season, the Volga team will feature not only promising young players, but also experienced League players, including Evgeny Minchenko, Gleb Sheiko, and Danila Pokhodiaev.
Another intriguing development is the new opportunity for Nikita Mikhailovskii, twice named the League’s best young player. He won 2 titles with CSKA, but in a supporting role. In Samara, the guard will have a much better chance to make a name – he will try to become the Volga team new hero.
