Jusuf Nurkic is confronting a crucial crossroads in his professional basketball career as his fitness and form come under severe criticism from both his national team and NBA observers. Following Bosnia and Herzegovina’s 102-90 loss to Montenegro in Sarajevo, head coach Adis Beciragic openly criticized Nurkic’s condition, stating bluntly that the veteran center is
“out of shape and can barely run.”
These concerns over Jusuf Nurkic conditioning come at a time when his NBA future appears increasingly uncertain.
National Team Struggles Highlight Conditioning Issues
Despite scoring 15 points in the recent defeat, Nurkic’s physical condition was deemed insufficient to meet top-level basketball demands. Bosnia’s performance during EuroBasket warm-up matches has been notably poor, with heavy losses not only against Montenegro but also against Serbia, who handed them a 126-89 defeat in a closed-door game. Additionally, back-to-back losses to China earlier this summer have compounded the team‘s difficulties. With a challenging group stage ahead that features Spain, Italy, Greece, Georgia, and host nation Cyprus, Bosnia cannot afford for its most experienced player to be hindered by stamina or pace issues.
Challenges in the NBA: Trades and Role Shifts
Jusuf Nurkic’s recent NBA journey has been marked by instability and mixed performances. After starting 23 games with the Phoenix Suns during the 2024-25 season, Nurkic was relegated to a bench role by head coach Mike Budenholzer, reflecting concerns about his impact. Midseason, he was traded to the Charlotte Hornets, but that tenure was short, as he was moved again to the Utah Jazz during the offseason in exchange for Collin Sexton. Now 30 and entering the final year of a $19.3 million contract, Nurkic is under pressure to elevate his conditioning and production to secure his place in the league moving forward.
Performance Data and Modern NBA Demands
Last season’s statistics reflect a steady but unimpressive output: Nurkic averaged 8.9 points, 7.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists per game, shooting 47.7% from the field and 30.5% from three-point range. While serviceable, these numbers raise questions about his ability to anchor a frontcourt effectively in today’s NBA, which increasingly prioritizes big men able to run the floor and defend multiple positions. Nurkic’s current physical state leaves him vulnerable to exposure in these critical areas where athleticism and stamina are paramount.
Coach Beciragic’s Candid Remarks and Team Impact
Beciragic specifically singled out Nurkic for his physical shortcomings, implying these issues are limiting Bosnia and Herzegovina’s competitiveness. The coach’s frank analysis sends a clear signal that Nurkic’s conditioning is not only a personal concern but also a factor negatively affecting the entire team’s performance. This criticism comes amid poor results that threaten Bosnia’s prospects in EuroBasket, where the team must face some of Europe’s strongest basketball nations.
NBA Future Hangs on Physical Fitness and On-Court Impact
For Nurkic, the stakes extend beyond representing his country; his performance in this international tournament could affect his perception among NBA front offices. While he is still young enough at 30 to contribute meaningfully, the league’s current trend leaves little room for centers who cannot keep up with the ever-faster, more versatile style of play. This summer’s EuroBasket might represent one of Nurkic’s final chances to demonstrate he remains a reliable starting-caliber center. Failure to improve his conditioning and impact on the court could mean that the $19.3 million he earns this season is the peak of his NBA earnings, with potential future opportunities outside the league.