Zvezdan Mitrović: I’m Proud We Built a Real Team

Cedevita Olimpija and head coach Zvezdan Mitrović have agreed to extend their cooperation. With the decisive stages of the 2025/26 season approaching, we took the opportunity to invite Mitrović in front of the cameras of Cedevita Olimpija TV.

“Actually, the decision was very natural. As a coach, I have very good working conditions here. It’s a healthy and encouraging environment – from the club management and the president all the way to the bus driver. Great chemistry has developed among us. We have achieved a nice result, and at the same time I feel good in Ljubljana and Slovenia in my private life as well. I feel a sense of belonging and I see room for progress and development, which we are systematically working on,” said Zvezdan Mitrović at the beginning, adding: “I am proud that we managed to build a real team. I’m not talking only about the twelve players on the court, but about the entire team and the coaching staff. There is no division between top and bottom with us – we are all one. We have established a system of play, but perhaps the most important thing for me as a coach is the development of players. Regardless of their age – whether it’s a young prospect, a player in the final stage of his career, or someone in his prime – everyone is progressing. That is visible in the results, in their performances, and ultimately in their further career paths.”

In the past, Mitrović had visited Ljubljana as the head coach of other teams or during national team activities.

“I didn’t really know Ljubljana before. I came here to play games, but I didn’t know the city itself. It’s one of the most beautiful cities in Europe. As for the club, I had a very positive impression. For me, cooperation is key – not only individual work, but true synergy between all of us. It is precisely this synergy that brings results. When we talk about results, of course we always dream of trophies and high finishes. In recent years, the team has created a recognizable identity – a recognizable style of play and good energy. At the same time, we must not forget the constant growth and development of all players.”

Mitrović also emphasized the importance of continuity.

“Continuity is extremely important when building a team and a system of play. It is important that a coach can develop his ideas in the long term, and it is also very important that the core of the team stays together. We are aware that we could not always keep all players – some moved to a higher level, including the NBA or financially stronger clubs. It is difficult to keep a team at the top, but with good scouting and the players who remain, we can continue to upgrade and develop the system.”

Mitrović also highlighted a word that best describes his coaching philosophy.

“It is difficult to describe it in one sentence, but I think the key word is adaptability.”

Speaking about the future, Mitrović remained somewhat cautious but pointed out the key priorities.

“I hope we continue at a rhythm where players give their maximum and play in a system that encourages development and the integration of new players. That is the identity I want to see on the court. Like every coach, I primarily want high-quality and hard work in practice. We want to be better and more consistent, and to have as few injuries and illnesses as possible. This season we faced many difficulties, not only injuries but also viruses and other health issues.”

At the end, Mitrović also addressed a special message to the fans of Cedevita Olimpija.

“I would like to invite them to come in even greater numbers. They shouldn’t come only for the derbies, but to support a team that plays quality and fighting basketball. The players give their maximum and fight sincerely. I am grateful to everyone who supports us, and I believe our basketball has become recognizable and attractive – something that everyone who understands the game points out. The doors are open – you are welcome in the arena. I am not a man of big promises. But I can promise hard work, a professional approach and organization at the highest possible level. I promise that we will give everything and achieve the best possible result within our capabilities. I cannot promise EuroLeague participation, but I can promise maximum dedication and professionalism.”