Cade Cunningham delivered an MVP-like performance, and center Jalen Duren enjoyed a breakout year, earning his first All-Star selection.
Former Pistons forward Bobi Klintman has taken a new path, signing a multi-year deal with Virtus Bologna in Italy. The move marks his departure from the NBA after two seasons with Detroit. Klintman joined Virtus Bologna following interest from several European clubs, with reports noting the Italian team’s pursuit of the 23-year-old forward. He previously explored opportunities to return to the NBA during free agency but ultimately chose to pursue opportunities overseas.
Klintman’s NBA journey began after being drafted 37th overall in 2024 by the Minnesota Timberwolves and subsequently being traded to Detroit on draft night. Over two seasons with the Pistons, he appeared in 20 games, averaging 1.9 points and 1.3 rebounds per game, and spent most of his time with the Motor City Cruise in the NBA G League. In the 2023-24 season with the Cruise, he posted averages of 12.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.4 steals per game, shooting 46.6% from the field, 39.0% from three-point range, and 73.0% from the free-throw line.
Detroit acted to adjust its roster late in the season, waiving Klintman to make room for Tolu Smith, whom the organization signed to a two-year contract after a strong late-season run.
Virtus Bologna, defending Italian champions and a two-time EuroLeague champion, has a storied tradition in Italian and European competition, including multiple Italian League titles and domestic cups. They recently reached the Italian League semifinals and have a history of competing at the highest levels in European basketball.
Klintman’s move to Virtus Bologna places him alongside several former NBA players who have found success in Europe, and it signals another chapter in his professional career as he continues to develop his game on a broader stage.
