From a hero final game to a new beginning at Cibona

By signing a new contract, the club has reaffirmed its confidence in a player who can once again play an important role on the team, as well as in the relationship built during one of the most challenging periods of his career. This is not simply a decision regarding the roster for the new season, but a confirmation of mutual trust built not only through games, results and statistics, but also during the time when Jan Palokaj was unable to take the court.

Following a serious injury, a long and demanding recovery began, marked by daily work, patience and progress that often goes unseen by the public. Palokaj was not alone on that journey. His teammates, coaching staff and medical team stood by him, while messages and support from the fans gave him additional strength. Throughout his recovery, Cibona provided him with the time, professional care and security he needed to return to basketball without unnecessary pressure.

“The day after Game 5 of the Finals and winning the Croatian championship, I proposed to Cibona’s management that we offer Jan Palokaj a new contract and allow him to stay with us. Everyone enthusiastically accepted and strongly supported the idea. Jan won the hearts of the fans, but also everyone at the club, in just six months with Cibona. He proved to be an exceptional fighter and competitor, while hitting a number of important shots throughout the season. We will especially remember his offensive rebound late in Game 5 of the Finals, which helped us secure the victory and the championship title. His commitment to Cibona is best demonstrated by the fact that he personally paid the buyout to terminate his previous contract and join our club midway through the season, while accepting significantly more modest financial terms. In doing so, he showed just how much Cibona and Zagreb mean to him. That is why I am extremely happy to confirm that Jan Palokaj will remain with us for at least another year. I am convinced that he will wear the Cibona jersey for many years after that as well. His recovery is progressing well, and his leg is getting better every day. We will patiently wait until he is fully ready, after which he will rejoin the team at full intensity. In this situation, Cibona has shown how much it cares about its people and players. The club arranged for Jan to undergo an examination and surgery in Vienna with renowned foot and ankle specialist Univ.-Prof. Dr. Hans-Jörg Trnka and provided him with the best possible conditions for a quality and safe recovery”, said Cibona sports director Marin Rozić.

His upcoming return is the result of a collective effort, but above all, of his willingness to approach the recovery process responsibly every single day, without taking shortcuts. The way he has handled his rehabilitation has confirmed that the club can count on him not only because of his basketball qualities, but also because of the character he brings to the team.

“I am going through perhaps the most challenging period of my career. I have never found myself in a situation like this, and I really have to thank everyone at the club. From the medical staff to the management, they have provided me with everything I need for the best possible recovery. I am looking forward to the new season. Although I will not be able to help the team from the start, I believe we will make a good start to the season, and I hope that once I return, I can contribute to making the team even better”, said Palokaj.

Cibona’s history has not been built solely on trophies and big games. It has been built by the people who have worn its jersey and understood the responsibility that comes with it. Statistics can describe a player’s contribution on the court, but they cannot fully capture his relationship with his teammates, the club and the fans. Likewise, the value of a club is not demonstrated only in moments of victory, but also by its willingness to stand by its players when they are going through the most difficult periods.