Theo Maledon to Real Madrid until 2027, it’s agreed
May 22, 2025
Gabriel Pantel-Jouve
Theo Maledon: « I dream of leaving ASVEL with a title »
Betclic ELITE - Theo Maledon, back at ASVEL this season after four years in the United States, is preparing to play the Betclic ELITE playoffs against Chalon with a clear goal: to end on a high note by becoming French champion again with his first professional club.
Photo Credit : Sébastien Grasset
Theo Maledon (6’4″, 23 years old) has established himself as one of the best players in Betclic ELITE this season. Making a remarkable return to Villeurbanne, the 23-year-old point guard (turning 24 on June 12) is set to leave, likely for Real Madrid. Before that, he dreams of giving ASVEL one last title, like in 2019. On the eve of playoffs against Chalon, he spoke to Le Progrès.
A season of rebirth for Theo Maledon
Having a strong individual season, Theo Maledon didn’t set statistical limits when returning to France. What mattered was his impact on the game and enjoyment. « My return has been a real success. I’ve had tremendous fun, » he explains. In an environment where he felt empowered, particularly thanks to the trust built with coach Pierric Poupet, the Norman found his best level again.
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After four mixed years in the NBA (Oklahoma City, Charlotte, Phoenix), Theo Maledon chose EuroLeague, which he describes as a « special competition, with enormous talent and passion. » Inspired by the paths of players like Elie Okobo or Guerschon Yabusele, he saw ASVEL as an ideal launching pad. The example of Nando De Colo, whom he works with daily, has also been a driving force in his development.
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A move to Real Madrid on the horizon
Without officially confirming it, Theo Maledon is moving closer to Real Madrid, where he could play for the next two seasons. While aware that ASVEL can’t yet compete with Europe’s biggest clubs, he emphasizes that the club is « like home. » A deep attachment that could one day bring him back, similar to Alexandre Lacazette with OL.
But before looking ahead, there’s an immediate goal: winning the playoffs. « The aim is to win eight games to leave with the trophy, » he says with determination. Chalon, ASVEL’s first opponent, is warned: the former NBA player approaches each game like a final. Starting with Tuesday May 27’s game at 7pm at the Astroballe.
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