Taipei Taishin Mars Sign 211cm Croatian Center Marin Marić, Who Chose No. 34 Inspired by Antetokounmpo

The Taipei Taishin Mars have signed Croatian center Marin Marić, a towering 211 cm (6 ft 11 in) player who brings extensive international experience to the team. Marić has played professionally in Turkey, Croatia, Greece, Spain, China, and Taiwan, and has also represented Croatia in qualifying matches for the 2025 European Basketball Championship.

Yang Sheng-kai, the Mars' operations director, highlighted Marić's versatility, noting his "outside shooting ability" which will provide "more diverse tactical options." He added that Marić is a team-oriented player who communicates well with teammates. "We expect him to not only strengthen our inside game but also help the team reach another level," Yang stated.

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Marić is a player who values teamwork and is willing to communicate with his teammates. We expect him to not only strengthen our inside game but also help the team reach another level.

Marić, 32, previously played for the Hsinchu Toplus Lioneers in the TPBL during the 2025-26 season. In 14 regular season games, he averaged 16.4 points, 11.8 rebounds, and 2.3 assists. His impactful performance included a 31-point, 18-rebound game against the New Taipei Kings, showcasing his dominance on both ends of the court.

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I know the team faced some challenges last season, so I want to help the team win and bring more fans to support us.

Looking forward to the new season with the Mars, Marić expressed his eagerness to lead with his decade-plus of professional experience and help younger players develop. "I know the team faced some challenges last season, so I want to help the team win and bring more fans to support us," he said. He chose the number 34, a jersey worn by admired players like Shaquille O'Neal, Hakeem Olajuwon, and Giannis Antetokounmpo, aspiring to have a similar impact in the paint.

Marić is expected to arrive in Taiwan in late August. He is familiar with the living and playing environment. For the upcoming season, the Mars aim for the playoffs, and Marić hopes the entire team stays healthy and enjoys the game. He pledged to assist the team on and off the court, encourage teammates, and give them space to perform, believing they can create "great chemistry."

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I chose number 34 because players like O'Neal, Olajuwon, and 'Alphabet' Antetokounmpo have worn it, and I hope to have an impact in the paint like them.