BOLOGNA, Italy – Virtus Bologna announced Friday the dismissal of head coach Dusko Ivanovic, effective immediately. The decision comes following a recent EuroLeague defeat against Olimpia Milano, and the club has appointed Nenad Jakovljevic as his replacement, the team confirmed in a statement.
Ivanovic, 68, had been at the helm of the ‘Vu nere’ since December 2024, stepping in after the resignation of Luca Banchi. Under his leadership, Virtus Bologna secured their 17th Italian League championship in June 2025, dominating Brescia 3-0 in the playoff finals. Despite this domestic success, the team’s recent form in the EuroLeague appears to have prompted the change.
The club similarly announced that assistant coach Nenad Trajkovic will be leaving alongside Ivanovic. Jakovljevic, previously serving as Ivanovic’s assistant, will be supported by Daniele Parente and Cristian Fedrigo as they navigate the remainder of the season.
“Virtus Pallacanestro Bologna announces that it has relieved Head Coach Dusko Ivanovic of his duties,” read the official club statement. “At the same time, the club announces that assistant coach Nenad Trajkovic is also concluding his experience with the club. Virtus would like to express its sincere gratitude to Coach Ivanovic for his professionalism, dedication, and work during his tenure. Gratitude is also extended to Nenad Trajkovic. Both are wished the best in their future professional careers. The club also announces that the role of Head Coach will be entrusted to Nenad Jakovljevic, who will be assisted by Daniele Parente and Cristian Fedrigo. Best wishes for good work for the rest of the sporting season are extended to Coach Jakovljevic and his staff.”
Virtus Bologna currently holds the top spot in the Italian League with an 18-4 record, demonstrating their continued strength domestically. However, their performance in the EuroLeague has been under scrutiny, making this coaching change a pivotal moment for the club as they aim for success on both fronts.
Jakovljevic now faces the challenge of maintaining Virtus Bologna’s dominance in Italy even as striving for improved results in the highly competitive EuroLeague. The appointment marks a new chapter for the club, and fans will be eager to see how Jakovljevic implements his strategies and leads the team forward.
The team’s next challenge comes against [future opponent and date to be confirmed – information not available in provided sources]. Fans can follow updates and further information on the club’s official website and social media channels.
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