Karlo Matkovic, the 52nd pick in the 2022 NBA draft by the New Orleans Pelicans, will reportedly join the Birmingham Squadron in the G League, according to Michael Scotto of HoopsHype.
Matkovic, who was born in Bosnia and Herzegovina, has played the past two seasons with KK Cedevita Olimpija in Slovenia. He averaged 15.4 points, 6.9 rebounds, 2.4 blocks and 1.1 steals on 63% shooting from the field in 34 games this season.
The 6-foot-10 forward played with the Pelicans in the NBA Summer League last year, averaging seven points, 4.3 rebounds, 2.3 blocks, one assist and one steal in four appearances. He had his best game on July 11: 13 points, five rebounds and three blocks.
The New Orleans Pelicans have added Karlo Matkovic to their G League team, the Birmingham Squadron, league sources told @hoopshype. Matkovic was the 52nd overall pick of the 2022 NBA Draft by the Pelicans.
— Michael Scotto (@MikeAScotto) February 21, 2024
The Pelicans hold the draft rights to Matkovic and opted to have him start with the Squadron, who have 13 games left in the regular season. He could finish the season in the G League and then join the Pelicans for the postseason.
Matkovic has also represented Croatia in several international events, most recently in the 2022 FIBA EuroBasket. He averaged six points and 3.5 rebounds on 77.8% shooting from the field in six appearances as Croatia finished in 12th place.
The 22-year-old is highly touted for his ability on both ends of the court. He has great mobility at his size and can run the floor well on offense and protect the paint on defense. He has shown improvement with his shot, converting 42.6% shooting from 3-point range this season.
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