Nando De Colo’s name has long been synonymous with European basketball excellence, but this season, the 38-year-old French star is scripting what could be a dramatic final chapter with Fenerbahçe in the Euroleague. After returning to Istanbul as one of the most significant signings of the Euroleague season, De Colo is once again at the heart of the action—this time, embracing a new role off the bench, bringing a wealth of veteran leadership and poise to an already formidable squad.
De Colo’s return to Fenerbahçe has been met with excitement and anticipation. The Turkish powerhouse, under the guidance of head coach Sarunas Jasikevicius, currently sits atop the Euroleague standings with a robust 22-8 record as of March 14, 2026. That’s no small feat, considering the fierce competition this season, and De Colo’s steady contributions have played a pivotal part in their success. Despite not starting, he’s averaged 8.7 points per game and is shooting a scorching 42% from three-point range in his nine Euroleague appearances—a stat line that would make any coach smile.
“I have a contract with Fenerbahçe until the end of the season. Right now, the only thing that matters to me is that the team achieves its two goals: winning the championship and advancing in the Euroleague. If we win the Euroleague… yes, then maybe I’ll retire. There’s a right time for everything in life,” De Colo explained in an interview with Arena Sport. The candid admission adds an extra layer of intrigue to Fenerbahçe’s campaign, as fans and teammates alike wonder if they are witnessing the swan song of one of the game’s most decorated guards.
De Colo’s impact extends far beyond his scoring touch. His presence in the locker room and on the court has been lauded by teammates and coaches, who see him as a calming influence and a mentor for younger players. While he’s not logging the heavy minutes of earlier years, his ability to step in and deliver clutch performances—whether it’s a timely three-pointer or a critical defensive stop—has been invaluable. For Jasikevicius, having a player of De Colo’s caliber coming off the bench is a luxury few Euroleague teams can boast.
The Frenchman’s journey with Fenerbahçe has been marked by both triumph and transition. After notable stints with clubs like ASVEL and a previous run with Fenerbahçe, his return this season was seen as a homecoming of sorts. Yet, rather than seeking the spotlight, De Colo has embraced his supporting role, focused on the collective mission rather than individual accolades. “Right now, at least six or seven teams are competing for a spot in the Final Four. The Playoffs will be a living hell,” he remarked, underscoring the razor-thin margins and intensity of this year’s competition.
Indeed, the Euroleague’s upper echelon has rarely been this tightly packed. With Fenerbahçe leading the charge but several teams nipping at their heels, the path to the Final Four is anything but assured. De Colo’s perspective on the playoff race is shaped by years of experience—he knows that a single off night can upend months of hard work. Still, his focus remains unwavering: “There’s a right time for everything in life,” he reiterated, suggesting that he’s content to let fate—and his team’s performance—determine whether this season will be his last.
The numbers only tell part of the story. De Colo’s 8.7 points per game may not leap off the page, but his efficiency and situational awareness set him apart. Shooting 42% from beyond the arc, he’s a constant threat when left open, punishing defenses that dare to sag off him. More importantly, his ability to read the game and make the right play, whether setting up a teammate or drawing a foul, keeps Fenerbahçe’s offense humming.
Jasikevicius has been quick to praise De Colo’s professionalism and adaptability. Integrating a veteran into a new system—especially one with championship aspirations—can be tricky. But De Colo’s willingness to accept a bench role and prioritize team success has set a tone for the entire roster. Younger players, in particular, have gravitated toward his example, seeking advice on everything from shot selection to mental preparation for the grueling Euroleague schedule.
Fenerbahçe’s position at the top of the standings is a testament to their depth and resilience. The squad has weathered injuries, tough road games, and the relentless pressure that comes with being the defending champions. As De Colo noted, the competition is fierce: “Right now, at least six or seven teams are competing for a spot in the Final Four.” That assessment rings true, as perennial contenders like Real Madrid, Olympiacos, and Barcelona remain in the hunt, each eager to dethrone the Turkish giants.
For De Colo, the chance to end his illustrious career with another Euroleague title is a tantalizing prospect. He’s already amassed a trophy cabinet that most players can only dream of, but the fire to compete—and to win—still burns bright. The prospect of retiring on top, after helping guide Fenerbahçe through one of the most competitive seasons in recent memory, holds a certain poetic appeal. “If we win the Euroleague… yes, then maybe I’ll retire,” he said, leaving the door open just a crack for one last run.
The coming weeks promise to be a rollercoaster for Fenerbahçe and their fans. With the playoffs looming and the stakes higher than ever, every possession, every shot, and every defensive stand will take on added significance. De Colo’s steady hand and unflappable demeanor could prove to be the difference in tight contests, especially as the pressure mounts and the margin for error shrinks.
As the Euroleague regular season draws to a close, all eyes will be on Istanbul. Will Nando De Colo cap his storied career with one final triumph, or will the relentless grind of the playoffs write a different ending? One thing’s for sure: with De Colo leading by example, Fenerbahçe won’t go down without a fight. The veteran guard’s legacy is secure, but the story isn’t finished just yet. The basketball world waits with bated breath to see how this chapter unfolds.