Nando De Colo, who joined ASVEL in 2022 after years abroad, departed this winter to pursue a third Euroleague title with Fenerbahçe. The recently retired player shared insights into his return to Turkey with Le Progrès.
“I had quick initial discussions with Olympiacos, but I moved on swiftly when Fener presented itself around December 20th. I crossed paths with Tony (Parker), and he told me, ‘I’m aware, I’ll let you discuss it with your agent.’ However, for ten days, there was radio silence from ASVEL’s end. I played against Paris and thought, ‘Fener isn’t going to happen’ because I had no idea what ASVEL would be willing to accept. Then, at the very end of December, during the break, Gaëtan (Muller) got involved, spoke with the shareholders and my agent. They explained that from a sporting perspective, there was no way I could leave and that I needed to make a financial sacrifice. After discussing with Fener’s general manager and coach, I seized the opportunity for this final challenge. It was a good chance to finish the season and my career well. I knew I was moving closer to my last season, and the decision was made at the last minute. It wasn’t easy for Pierric (Poupet), but he understood the situation.”
This conclusion to his ASVEL tenure left the point guard with a bittersweet feeling. Upon his signing, ASVEL was at the pinnacle of French basketball, having just won two consecutive French championships. By the time he left a few months ago, the team was at the bottom of the Euroleague standings and trailing the leaders in Betclic Élite.
“I knew very well that by signing with ASVEL, I wouldn’t win the Euroleague! But there were objectives that kept me motivated, like aiming for the playoffs, which would have been a significant step for the club and could have helped it to structure itself as it was before my arrival. Before 2018, ASVEL was performing very well. But after I joined, there were quite a few organizational problems, and that was reflected in the sporting results.”
The Frenchman also discussed the announcement of his retirement, which sent shockwaves through the European basketball community.
“In life, there’s a time for everything. It’s a matter of timing, and I believe this is the right moment. This decision wasn’t made overnight. Before joining Fenerbahçe, I knew there was a very, very high chance it would be my last year with ASVEL. My contract was ending, and I didn’t see myself playing another season. When Fener offered me these six months, it suited me well. In any case, I knew we would be moving. There will have been two moves, but this one will be different because it’s a return home! I’m still as passionate, I still give my all to help my team, but I’m at peace. There’s a time for everything; I need time for myself, but I will never be far from the courts.”
