KK Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet announced that their star center, Joel Bolomboy, underwent successful foot surgery in the United States on Wednesday, April 30, 2025, as reported on the club’s official website. The procedure addressed a foot injury sustained during a EuroLeague match against Olimpia Milano (Armani) in Belgrade on March 14, 2025. Initially diagnosed as a moderate-to-severe foot sprain without a fracture, the injury required further evaluation in the U.S., leading to surgery that will sideline Bolomboy for the remainder of the 2024-25 season.
Bolomboy, the EuroLeague’s leading rebounder this season with 5.3 defensive and 2.7 offensive rebounds per game, has been a cornerstone for Crvena Zvezda since joining in 2023. The 30-year-old, 206 cm center’s absence has been significant, particularly in key games like the derby against Partizan, where his defensive tenacity and rebounding were sorely missed. Widely regarded as one of the club’s best recent signings, Bolomboy’s impact was evident in his dominant performances before the injury.
While the club confirmed the surgery’s success, no specific timeline for his return was provided beyond the season-ending prognosis, with updates expected after post-operative evaluations. Bolomboy traveled to the U.S. for additional medical assessments on April 25, 2025, with the club’s approval, and his rehabilitation has been supported by FK Crvena Zvezda’s medical facilities, reflecting the collaboration between the basketball and football clubs.
As Crvena Zvezda pushes forward in the ABA League and domestic competitions without Bolomboy, the team faces the challenge of filling his void in their pursuit of titles. Fans wish him a speedy recovery as they look ahead to his return next season.
