Beloved commentator Edin Avdić dies at 46; tributes pour in from basketball world
Translated from Croatian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Renowned sports commentator Edin Avdić, known for his passionate Euroleague, ABA, and NBA broadcasts, has died at age 46.
- Avdić's death has shocked the region, with tributes pouring in from prominent figures, particularly in basketball.
- Croatian coach Aleksandar Petrović and former BiH player Mirza Teletović shared personal memories and expressed deep sorrow over his premature passing.
The sudden death of Edin Avdić, a beloved Bosnian sports journalist and arguably the most recognized basketball commentator in the region, has sent shockwaves across the Balkans. Avdić, 46, was celebrated for the passion he brought to every broadcast, making him a favorite for Euroleague, ABA League, and NBA games.
Numerous prominent figures, especially from the basketball world, have paid tribute to the late commentator. Croatian coach Aleksandar Petrović shared his grief, recalling a recent podcast recording in Zagreb and a planned continuation that will now never happen. "Regional basketball is much poorer without you," Petrović wrote, lamenting Avdić's premature departure.
First of all, a few months ago we recorded a podcast in Zagreb, but we also agreed that we had to record a sequel because we didn't get to open many topics. Unfortunately, your premature departure has spoiled our plans. Regional basketball is much poorer without you. Rest in peace, EDIN.
Former Bosnian player Mirza Teletović also expressed his disbelief and sorrow, remembering Avdić as a "brother" and a significant part of his career. Teletović recalled Avdić's famous on-air call, "Teletović, from the locker room, from the parking lot," after a crucial shot during a 2013 Eurobasket game. "My family and I considered you the most beloved," Teletović stated, emphasizing the indelible mark Avdić left on their lives and the void his passing has created.
My friend and brother. I can't believe you are no longer with us, and just two days ago we were talking, congratulating each other on Eid... You are an important part of my career, and if it weren't for your famous sentence: 'From the parking lot,' maybe I wouldn't be who I am today. And more importantly, my family and I considered you the most beloved. You have left a void in our hearts and an indelible mark on our lives. I love you, brother. Rest in peace and may your beautiful soul find mercy.
Originally published by Večernji List in Croatian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.