Vlade Đurović: 'I couldn't stand Milošević, and I called Madeleine Albright an ugly old woman. Zadar? That was a miracle'

The echoes of a legendary victory resonate from Zadar, a city forever marked by its 1986 Yugoslav Championship triumph. As we commemorate the 40th anniversary of this historic achievement, former coach Vlade Đurović shares his vivid recollections, painting a picture of a time when basketball was more than just a sport – it was a unifying force.

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These from 1986 are the best possible memories for me, the best period of my life. Later, people from Split called me, it was already known that they had super talents like Rađa and Kukoč, but I decided on Zvezda. When I saw that Split, which I was supposed to take over, not Maljković, became the European champion, I was devastated. I can't describe in words how sorry I was.

Đurović's narrative is steeped in the passion and rivalry of that era. His candid admission of initial despair at missing out on coaching a powerhouse Split, only to witness their European success, adds a layer of human drama to the story. Yet, his eventual role in Zadar's 'miracle' victory highlights the unpredictable nature of sports and the profound impact a single season can have.

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When they told me they were celebrating 40 years since Zadar's last Yugoslav championship title, I asked myself why 40. And then I told myself: 'Who will live to see the 50th anniversary?!' Probably not even some of the fans, and most of them were between 40 and 50 years old, are no longer alive.

Reflecting on his life now at 78, Đurović's engagement with Arena Sport and his preference for the company of younger generations speak volumes. It's a testament to his enduring spirit and his ability to connect with the present, even as he cherishes the glories of the past. His stories, filled with the unique characters and intense moments of Yugoslav basketball, offer a valuable glimpse into a sporting heritage that continues to inspire.

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That fan wrote that my decision to play football at the last training session before leaving for the decisive game in Zagreb was brilliant. At first, they were also taken aback. It was important to me that the players relax, that we laugh. After that, we went to the restaurant Sfinga, where they served the best fish in town.

This story is particularly poignant for us in the region. It’s not just about a championship title; it's about a shared history, a collective memory that transcends borders. While international coverage might focus on the game's technical aspects or the coach's career, we see the deeper cultural significance – the pride, the camaraderie, and the enduring legacy of a golden age in Yugoslav sports.

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I comment on basketball for Arena Sport, which people react to well and it keeps me going. I mostly hang out with people younger than me. For example, in my street, I have some lawyers, doctors who like to chat with me because I tell them my stories, and I feel younger with them. I don't like talking to my generation because then the conversation is only about illnesses, operations, who has a good doctor, and so on.