Efes' Strategic Move: Bolstering Roster with EuroBasket Star
Anadolu Efes Pursues Guard Jordan Loyd
Turkish basketball team Anadolu Efes is reportedly nearing a definitive agreement to onboard American guard Jordan Loyd. This development comes on the heels of Loyd's exceptional showing in the recent EuroBasket tournament, positioning him as a highly sought-after talent in European basketball circles.
Real Madrid's Failed Bid and Efes' Advantage
NBA insider Marc Stein revealed that Real Madrid had previously expressed interest in securing Loyd's services. However, the Spanish club encountered considerable obstacles in negotiating his release from AS Monaco. This situation has seemingly paved the way for Anadolu Efes to finalize the deal, adding the 32-year-old veteran to their roster. Loyd would join recent signees Cole Swider and Kai Jones, indicating a clear strategy from Efes to reinforce its squad.
Loyd's Consistent Performance in EuroLeague
Loyd's potential move is expected to significantly enhance Anadolu Efes' offensive capabilities, particularly from the perimeter. Throughout 159 EuroLeague appearances, the guard has maintained an average of 12.3 points per game. His shooting efficiency includes an impressive 49.2% from inside the arc and an 87.8% success rate from the free-throw line, showcasing his reliability as a scorer.
EuroBasket Dominance Elevates Loyd's Profile
Loyd's outstanding performances at EuroBasket 2025 further solidified his reputation. He delivered powerful scoring displays, notably recording 32 points against Slovenia and 27 points against Israel during the group stage. Across the seven games he participated in, Loyd averaged 22.4 points, coupled with a 42.2% shooting accuracy from three-point range and an 87.5% free-throw percentage, demonstrating his elevated skill level on a major international stage.
Efes' Ambition to Reclaim EuroLeague Supremacy
This strategic signing underscores Anadolu Efes' renewed ambition to re-establish itself as a dominant force in the EuroLeague. The club, which notably clinched consecutive titles in 2021 and 2022, has since been striving to return to the Final Four. Acquiring a player of Loyd's caliber is a strong statement of intent, signalling their determination to contend for future championships.
