In a pivotal move for Olimpia Milano’s future, owner Giorgio Armani personally hosted a private dinner with star forward Nikola Mirotic and club president Leo Dell’Orco to negotiate a contract extension, as reported by Massimo Pisa in Repubblica-Milano. The meeting, held in the days leading up to May 1, 2025, underscores Mirotic’s importance to the team, with Armani and Dell’Orco emphasizing his central role in the club’s EuroLeague and LBA ambitions. The trio concluded with a handshake, signaling mutual intent, but no formal contract has been signed yet.
Mirotic, who signed a three-year deal with Olimpia Milano in 2023, has an option to exit his contract this summer. At 34, the Montenegrin-Spanish star is eyeing what could be his final major contract. His stellar 2024-25 EuroLeague season—averaging 17.7 points and 6.4 rebounds per game, ranking fifth in both categories with a 55% two-point and 39% three-point shooting clip—has made him a prime target. AS Monaco, currently leading FC Barcelona 2-1 in the EuroLeague playoffs and one win from the 2025 Final Four in Abu Dhabi, has emerged as a formidable rival, offering a lucrative three-year deal backed by coach Vassilis Spanoulis and star Mike James.
Mirotic’s impact on Milano has been undeniable, with standout performances like his 33-point, 15-for-16 free-throw effort against Reggio Emilia and a 29-point, 39-evaluation game against Trapani Shark in the LBA. Despite injury setbacks, including a two-week absence due to a muscular issue in January 2025 and a hip contusion in March, Mirotic has shown leadership and consistency, earning praise as a potential MVP candidate.
While Mirotic has expressed contentment in Milan, calling it a “great family” and appreciating his reunion with coach Ettore Messina, Monaco’s ambitious project and financial package pose a significant challenge. The handshake with Armani signals Milano’s determination to retain their star, but the absence of a signed deal leaves the door open. As Olimpia prepares for the LBA playoffs and faces Trapani Shark in a televised clash on May 4, 2025, the outcome of these negotiations could shape the club’s trajectory.
