Ulhas KS has made history by becoming the first Indian player to compete in the prestigious Serbian National Basketball League Division 1, Košarkaška Liga Srbije (KLS). Playing for Novi Pazar, Ulhas marked his debut with a match against BKK Radnički, a significant milestone for Indian basketball on the international stage.
The Serbian National Basketball League is known as one of the most competitive leagues in Europe, featuring 16 elite clubs and numerous players from Serbia’s bronze medal-winning squad at the Paris Olympics. In this competitive environment, Ulhas’ participation is a major step forward for Indian basketball players aspiring to compete globally.
Ulhas’ journey to this historic debut has been nothing short of remarkable. Just a few months ago, he suffered a broken jaw, a setback that could have ended his playing career. However, with sheer determination, he made a strong recovery and stepped back onto the court to a warm reception from his teammates and fans. Wearing a protective mask, Ulhas played for five minutes in his debut game, recording an assist and a steal.
Speaking about this achievement, Ulhas said: “It is an incredible honour to represent India in the Serbian National Basketball League. The journey has been challenging, especially recovering from my injury, but the support from my family, coaches, and teammates kept me going. Competing in such a high-caliber league is a dream come true, and I hope this inspires more Indian players to aim for international opportunities.”
Ulhas has previously represented India in several key international matches, including the World Cup qualifier against Lebanon in October 2022 and games against Jordan and Saudi Arabia in February 2023. His transition to Europe’s competitive basketball circuit highlights the growing recognition of Indian talent on the global stage.
The Košarkaška Liga Srbije promises exciting action this season, with a mix of seasoned players and emerging talents competing for supremacy. Ulhas’ entry into this elite league showcases his resilience and skill, paving the way for future generations of Indian basketball players.
