Duško Ivanović Appointed Head Coach of Zenit

Montenegrin basketball coach Duško Ivanović has been officially appointed as the head coach of Zenit for the upcoming season, the club announced on June 26, 2026. The 68-year-old specialist has signed a contract through the end of the 2028/29 season. Ivanović brings extensive European coaching experience, having led prestigious clubs including Barcelona and Panathinaikos, and has won championships in Spain, Italy, Switzerland, France, and Serbia. Most recently, he coached Italian club Virtus in the 2025/26 season before departing in March.

Zenit's board chairman Aleksandr Medvedev explained the appointment, noting that among multiple candidates, Ivanović stood out for demonstrating both a clear vision and a strategic approach to building a championship team. Medvedev praised Ivanović as both a great player and great coach, highlighting his full energy and enthusiasm. The negotiations between the club and Ivanović were described as constructive and swift. Ivanović previously worked in the VTB League with Khimki in 2016–2017, where he led the team to the finals before losing to CSKA.

Russian basketball legend Sergei Elevich endorsed the appointment, stating that Ivanović's well-structured play and strict discipline—qualities for which he is known—are exactly what Zenit needs to achieve success. Ivanović's career highlights include two Euroleague finals appearances as Khimki's coach and a Final Four appearance with Barcelona. The appointment comes after Zenit finished third in the VTB League's playoff series last season, with the team having cycled through three coaches during that campaign.