Payne’s arrival adds depth and creativity to Belgrade’s backcourt rotation
Cameron Payne brings NBA pedigree to Partizan
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Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade gave its backcourt a significant boost by signing guard Cameron Payne, the club announced on Tuesday. Payne (1.91 meters, 31 years old) arrives in Belgrade with a wealth of experience from the NBA, where he played for several teams over nine seasons, most notably helping the Phoenix Suns reach the 2021 NBA Finals.
A dynamic floor general known for his scoring bursts and playmaking ability, Payne averaged 7.8 points and 3.2 assists over 477 NBA games. He also appeared in 72 playoff contests. Payne began his professional career after being selected 14th overall in the 2015 NBA Draft by the Oklahoma City Thunder. Before that, he played two seasons of college basketball at Murray State, where he was the 2015 Ohio Valley Conference Player of the Year and the 2015 Lute Olson Award winner as the most outstanding men's college basketball player.
Payne brings speed, creativity, and a fearless approach to the backcourt. His ability to push the pace in transition and create off the dribble should complement Partizan’s athletic wings and bigs, while his experience running pick-and-rolls adds another weapon to the team’s offense. Known for his energy and leadership, Payne can provide instant scoring and facilitate ball movement, which could help stabilize Partizan’s attack in late-game situations and improve efficiency against the EuroLeague’s elite defenses.
This marks Payne’s first stint in European basketball, where he will join forces with newly appointed head coach Joan Penarroya to boost Partizan’s backcourt depth and offensive creativity. His arrival comes as Partizan looks to climb the EuroLeague standings.