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Serbian star and American international land in PAOK: become teammates of Nicky Kurtev and Nicky Kolev

Николай Варадинов

Николай Варадинов

November 14, 2025 at 23:00

Serbian star and American international land in PAOK: become teammates of Nicky Kurtev and Nicky Kolev

PAOK's men's volleyball team continues to strengthen vigorously after parting ways with head coach Josko Milenkoski, and the new big name is a real transfer coup:Serbian international Uros Kovacevic. The club's management acted quickly and decisively, securing the signature of one of the best outside hitters in world volleyball. The contract is until the end of the season, and expectations are that his presence will propel the team towards high goals in the Greek championship and Europe.


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Player Profile

Born on May 6, 1993, in Serbia, standing197 cm, Uros Kovacevic is among the most recognizable and successful 'wing spikers' (outside hitters/attackers) in world volleyball. His career is full of trophies, individual awards, and experience in the strongest leagues on the planet.

Club Career

PeriodClubAchievements
2003–2010Ribnica Kraljevo (Serbia)Elite debut, major breakthrough in 2009/10
2010–2013ACH Volley Ljubljana (Slovenia)3 titles, 3 cups; participation in the London 2012 Olympic Games
2013–2015Modena (Italy)Best Outside Hitter in Serie A
2015–2017Verona (Italy)Winner of the Challenge Cup 2015/16
2017–2020Trentino (Italy)European champion 2019 with Serbia
2020–2021Beijing BAIC Motor (China)Champion of China
2021–2023Aluron CMC Warta Zawiercie (Poland)Among the top receivers in PlusLiga
2023–2024Ural Ufa (Russia)Key figure for both club and national team
2024–2025Piacenza (Italy)Confirmed his class in Serie A1


The table illustrates the key point – wherever he plays, Kovacevic leaves a mark. Almost every era of his at a club is accompanied by a trophy or significant individual progress. This speaks to versatility, stability, and an exceptionally high level.

National team – a golden page in his career

Kovacevic's biggest achievement is undoubtedlythe European title with Serbia in 2019, when he was among the brightest figures of the championship. He also participated in the Olympic Games in London 2012, and over the years has consistently been part of the core of the Serbian national team.

What does the transfer mean for PAOK?

PAOK now has a Bulgarian core in the center of the court in the persons ofNiki KârtevandNiki Kolev, and the addition of Kovacevic provides:

  • Explosive power in attack

  • Vast experience in difficult matches and major tournaments

  • Reception stability and aggressive serve

  • Leadership presence in the locker room

This is a transfer that changes the level of the entire championship and places PAOK among the favorites for the title once again.

The official message from the club

"Welcome to PAOK, Uros!" - reads the end of the club's announcement. Short, but completely sufficient, because Kovacevic's presence speaks for itself.

Another class player joins the Greek team: this is the American national team member - middle blockerJeffrey Jendryk.