Chris Duarte is increasingly close to staying in Spain after Malaga: agreement with Baskonia is close
Chris Duarte (1,98 m, 29 yo) and Baskonia are very close to reach an agreement.
As we reported this morning, Baskonia immediately expressed interest and appears to have won the competition.
The agreement is close to a one-year deal with an option for the following season, as also reported by SUR and confirmed by Be-Basketball and 5th Quarter.
The Dominican guard becomes one of the most sought-after names on the European transfer market this summer — and Baskonia appears to have won the race.
Why Did Chris Duarte Leave Unicaja Málaga?
Duarte arrived at Unicaja Málaga ahead of the 2025-26 season with high expectations, but his stint in Málaga proved difficult. Despite delivering solid individual numbers — 11.4 points, 2.9 assists and 1.9 rebounds per game in the ACB (27 games, 55.7% on 2-pointers, 90% from the free-throw line) — the relationship with the club reportedly became tense. He departs as one of the most efficient players in terms of free-throw shooting in the entire Liga Endesa, a trait that will not go unnoticed by his future employers.
In the Basketball Champions League, he also contributed 9.5 PPG and 3.0 RPG across 12 games, proving his value at a high European level.
What Does Baskonia Bring to Chris Duarte?
Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz competes at the highest level in both the EuroLeague and the ACB Liga Endesa, offering Duarte the most competitive stage available in Europe. The Basque club has consistently been among the top teams on the continent, and the 2026-27 season represents an important rebuilding phase for their roster.
For a player of Duarte’s profile — a versatile 6’6″ (198 cm) shooting guard/small forward — the EuroLeague stage is the ideal showcase to potentially attract NBA interest again, or to firmly establish himself as one of Europe’s premier wings.
Chris Duarte: From the NBA to Europe’s Elite
Born on June 13, 1997 in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic (28 years old), Christopher Theoret Duarte was selected 13th overall in the 2021 NBA Draft by the Indiana Pacers after a standout college career at the University of Oregon. He was one of the most exciting rookies of his class, earning NBA All-Rookie Team recognition.
His NBA journey then took him to the Sacramento Kings and the Chicago Bulls before he made the decision to move to Europe, signing a two-year deal with Unicaja Málaga in the summer of 2025. With Baskonia, he now enters a new chapter.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is Chris Duarte not in the NBA?
After four seasons in the NBA with the Pacers, Kings, and Bulls, Duarte chose to pursue his career in Europe, signing with Unicaja Málaga. The move reflected both his desire for more playing time and greater responsibility on the court.
How old is Chris Duarte?
Chris Duarte was born on June 13, 1997. He is currently 28 years old.
What team will Chris Duarte play for next season?
According to multiple sources, Chris Duarte is set to sign with Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz for the 2026-27 season, competing in both the ACB Liga Endesa and the EuroLeague.
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