Former Los Angeles Lakers guard Shake Milton has officially decided to leave the NBA and take his talents overseas, signing a two-year deal with Serbian powerhouse Partizan Belgrade. This surprising move marks a significant shift in Milton’s professional career and signals a growing trend of American players choosing international opportunities over the NBA when the circumstances align. Milton, who had spent multiple seasons in the league establishing himself as a versatile scoring guard and dependable role player, is now set to become one of the most high-profile additions to European basketball in recent years. His decision to sign with Partizan Belgrade has generated buzz not only because of his name recognition in the United States but also due to the implications it holds for both his career and the global basketball landscape.
Shake Milton entered the NBA as a second-round pick in 2018 after an impressive collegiate career at SMU. Known for his combination of shooting, ball-handling, and size, Milton was initially drafted by the Dallas Mavericks but was quickly traded to the Philadelphia 76ers, where he began his professional journey. Over the course of his time in Philadelphia, he gradually earned minutes through hard work and consistent scoring off the bench. At his peak with the 76ers, Milton showcased his ability to be a spark plug on offense, particularly during stretches when the team was plagued by injuries. His breakout moments included a 39-point game against the Los Angeles Clippers in March 2020, a performance that highlighted his potential as a dangerous offensive weapon when given the opportunity.
In the 2023 offseason, Milton signed with the Minnesota Timberwolves, but his role diminished due to a crowded backcourt rotation. He was later acquired by the Los Angeles Lakers, a move that was expected to revitalize his career as a perimeter scorer alongside LeBron James and Anthony Davis. However, things did not pan out as anticipated in Los Angeles. Milton’s minutes were inconsistent, and he struggled to carve out a defined role on a team with championship aspirations. While he showed flashes of his scoring ability and remained a reliable locker-room presence, the Lakers’ guard rotation, which featured the likes of D’Angelo Russell, Austin Reaves, and Gabe Vincent, left Milton with limited opportunities to contribute on a nightly basis.
By the end of the 2024-25 NBA season, Milton found himself at a crossroads. At 28 years old, he still has plenty of good basketball left in him, but the NBA market for role players can be unpredictable. While he might have had offers to remain in the league, likely on short-term or minimum contracts, Milton decided to take a different route by signing with Partizan Belgrade. For Milton, this is not just a basketball move but also a chance to be a star in a competitive environment that values his skillset in ways the NBA may not. European teams often rely heavily on experienced American guards to shoulder scoring and playmaking duties, and Milton’s ability to create his own shot, run an offense, and knock down perimeter jumpers makes him a perfect fit for Partizan’s style of play.
Partizan Belgrade, one of the most storied clubs in European basketball, competes in both the ABA League and the EuroLeague, the latter being the highest level of club basketball outside of the NBA. The EuroLeague is known for its intense competition, passionate fanbases, and tactical style of play, all of which will present Milton with a new set of challenges and opportunities. Partizan has built a reputation for being a breeding ground for talent, both domestic and international, and has a loyal fan base that creates one of the most electric atmospheres in European sports. By signing a two-year deal, Milton not only ensures stability in his career but also positions himself as a central figure for a team looking to make a deep run in the EuroLeague.
From a financial perspective, overseas deals can sometimes be more lucrative than NBA minimum contracts, especially when factoring in benefits such as housing, tax advantages, and bonuses. While Milton’s exact contract details with Partizan have not been disclosed, it is expected that he will earn a salary that reflects his status as a former NBA player with significant experience. More importantly, the move gives him the opportunity to play major minutes, take on a leadership role, and potentially elevate his profile in international basketball circles.
The decision to leave the NBA is never easy for players who have worked their entire lives to reach that level, but it is becoming increasingly common for talented players to pursue opportunities abroad when the right situation arises. For Milton, who has already proven that he can perform at the highest level, this move could reinvigorate his career and allow him to rediscover the joy of being a focal point on a team. Many former NBA players have found success overseas, with some even returning to the league after dominant stints in Europe. If Milton excels with Partizan, it is not inconceivable that an NBA team could come calling again in the future, especially if he demonstrates the ability to be a consistent scorer and playmaker against tough EuroLeague competition.
This move also highlights the global nature of basketball today. The gap between the NBA and the top European leagues has narrowed in certain respects, particularly when it comes to coaching, player development, and competitive intensity. Players like Mike James, Shane Larkin, and former NBA champions who have played in Europe have shown that success overseas can be just as fulfilling and career-defining as time spent in the NBA. Milton’s arrival in the EuroLeague is a testament to the league’s growing reputation as a viable destination for high-level players seeking both financial security and competitive challenges.
For Partizan Belgrade, signing a player of Milton’s caliber is a statement of intent. The club has been looking to bolster its roster to compete with European giants such as Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and Anadolu Efes, and adding a guard who can score, create for others, and provide playoff experience is a major step in that direction. Milton’s skill set will allow Partizan to diversify their offensive schemes, particularly in late-game situations where having a reliable shot creator is crucial. His NBA background will also bring a different level of professionalism and experience that could benefit younger players on the roster.
The transition from the NBA to the EuroLeague is not always seamless, as the style of play can be quite different. The EuroLeague places a stronger emphasis on team-oriented basketball, half-court execution, and physical defense. However, Milton’s game, which revolves around skill, patience, and shot-making, should translate well to this environment. He has the size and craft to excel in pick-and-roll situations, and his ability to shoot from beyond the arc will be a valuable weapon against tightly packed defenses. Moreover, his experience playing alongside superstars in the NBA will serve him well as he takes on a leadership role with Partizan.
