As one of the promising young prospects in regional basketball, Niko Šare is carving his path through dedication, hard work, and a growing understanding of the game. Competing for Cedevita Junior in both the ABA 2 and Premijer Liga, Šare is gaining valuable experience while setting his sights on a bright future.
Beginnings & Motivation
1. Why did you first start playing basketball, and who or what inspired you to stick with it?
I first started playing basketball in kindergarten, and that’s when my love for the sport began. Later, I joined the Zadar basketball school, where I officially started training.
2. What motivates you the most right now as a young player trying to make your way in the game?
My biggest motivation is the desire to succeed and to be better than I was yesterday. With that mindset, I go to every practice, arriving early, staying late, and working both on my weaknesses and improving my strengths.
3. How do you personally see the game of basketball — what’s your approach and mindset when you step on the court?
For me, basketball isn’t just about being the fastest, strongest, or tallest. It’s about desire, willpower, heart, and playing smart. It’s about trying to anticipate what the opponent will do and making the best possible decision in each moment — something like chess.
Development & Learning
4. What’s the biggest thing you’ve learned so far in your basketball journey?
Hard work always pays off, even when you don’t think so, because God sees everything. And especially when you think you’ve accomplished something, that’s the moment to stay humble and work even harder.
5. How would you describe your strengths as a player, and what are the areas you know you need to improve on?
I play as a point guard, and I believe my speed and physicality help me create advantages on offense. I enjoy passing the ball and finding teammates in the best possible positions. When needed, I can take responsibility myself, and with a good outside shot, I can cause additional problems for opponents. Still, I know I need to improve my shooting consistency, work on ball handling, and learn to play with my back to the basket.
6. Was it difficult for you to adjust from youth basketball to the senior, more physical game?
Definitely, yes. The biggest difference is that in senior basketball, if you make one or two mistakes, you’re benched, while in youth basketball that’s not the case. The game is also faster, tougher, and requires much more thinking.
7. How has that transition been going, and who helped you the most along the way?
Roko Jurlina and Mario Mandir were the two people who helped me the most. Under their leadership in the junior system and later in the second league with Jazine, I worked hard for two years, listened to their guidance, and grew as a player. That effort was rewarded when I signed with Cedevita Junior.
Cedevita Junior Experience
8. How do you feel about playing with Cedevita Junior, and what does this opportunity mean to you?
I feel phenomenal at Cedevita. I was welcomed in the best way possible, and the working conditions are excellent. The management is well-organized with clear goals, the gym is always available, and the coaches are eager to work with us. This opportunity means a lot to me, as I hope it will be the springboard for the rest of my career.
9. How tough is it for you to compete in both the ABA 2 and the Premijer Liga, and how do you prepare for those challenges?
I enjoy playing in multiple competitions and having more games. The more games you play, the more seriously people take you. Also, if you have a bad game, there’s another chance just a few days later to bounce back.
Role Models & Aspirations
10. Which EuroLeague team is your favorite, and why?
I don’t have a single favorite club, but I enjoy following Panathinaikos because of the number of high-quality guards and the incredible atmosphere they have.
11. Which players are your role models, and how do you try to model your game after them?
Miloš Teodosić is one of my favorite players. He’s a true example of what a point guard and a team player should be.
12. If you could choose, for which team would you like to play one day?
Either Panathinaikos or Olympiacos.
13. What are your ultimate dreams as a young player looking toward the future?
To play with the Croatian national team at the 2027 World Cup in Qatar.
Goals & Future
14. What are your short-term goals right now as you continue developing your career?
To improve my game so that next season I can reach the next level.
15. Looking ahead, where do you see yourself in the next five years as a player?
Hopefully, competing in the strongest possible European competition.
For Niko Šare, the basketball journey is just beginning. From learning the ropes at Cedevita Junior to testing himself in the ABA 2 and Premijer Liga, he is embracing every challenge and chasing his dream of reaching the highest levels of the game. With role models to inspire him and goals to drive him forward, Šare represents the next generation of talent ready to make its mark.