Cedi Osman
Cedi Osman – Career, Background, and Impact
Cedi Osman (born 8 April 1995) is a Turkish professional basketball player of Macedonian origin, known for his tenure in the NBA and current role in European basketball. (Citation)
Introduction
Cedi Osman (Turkish: Cedi Osman, Macedonian: Џеди Осман) is a Turkish professional basketball player who has made his mark both in the the NBA and Europe.
He plays primarily at the small forward position and is known for his versatility, three-point shooting, and steady contributions on both ends of the floor.
Early Life & Background
Cedi Osman was born on 8 April 1995 in Ohrid, in what is today North Macedonia.
His father is ethnically Turkish, and his mother is of Bosniak origin (from Novi Pazar, Serbia).
He has a brother named Caner Osman (sometimes spelled Dzaner or Caner), who is also involved in basketball.
Cedi began playing basketball in 2001 with the youth ranks of KK Bosna while still a child.
Because of his Turkish paternal heritage, he became a Turkish citizen and has represented Turkey in international competition.
Professional Career
Early Career in Turkey / Europe
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Osman joined Anadolu Efes’ youth and junior teams, and was later loaned to Pertevniyal (Efes’ affiliated side) to get more playing time.
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In 2015, his club won the Turkish Cup and the Turkish Super Cup, adding early silverware to his resume.
NBA Career
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In the 2015 NBA Draft, Cedi Osman was selected with the 31st overall pick by the Minnesota Timberwolves, but his draft rights were immediately traded to the Cleveland Cavaliers.
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Osman signed with Cleveland in July 2017.
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In 2018, he was part of the Cavaliers roster that reached the NBA Finals, though the team was swept in the series.
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On 25 January 2019, he scored a career-high 29 points in a game vs. the Miami Heat.
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In 2023, he was traded to the San Antonio Spurs in a three-team deal.
Return to Europe / Current Stage
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In September 2024, Osman signed with Panathinaikos in Greece, competing in both the Greek League and the EuroLeague.
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In April 2025, he agreed to a two-year contract extension with Panathinaikos.
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In a EuroLeague quarterfinal for Panathinaikos, he scored 28 points and collected 8 rebounds, being a key contributor in that victory.
International / National Team Career
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As a youth player, Osman competed in tournaments like the FIBA Europe U-16, U-18, and U-20 levels. He won gold in the U-20 Euro tournament and was MVP of that 2014 event.
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On the senior level, he has represented Turkey in major competitions such as the 2014 FIBA Basketball World Cup, EuroBasket 2015, 2017, 2022, and 2025.
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In EuroBasket 2025, he was made captain of the Turkish team, was among the tournament’s top three-point shooters, and was selected to the All-Tournament Second Team.
Playing Style & Impact
Cedi Osman is valued for:
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Shooting ability, especially from three-point range
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Versatility — can play multiple wing roles
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Consistency as a role player — contributing reliably rather than being a singular star
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Leadership roles, especially in his later international involvement
His move to Panathinaikos reflects how European clubs see veteran NBA experience as highly valuable in continental competition.
Lessons from Cedi Osman’s Path
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Dual heritage can be an asset — Osman’s background gave him access to represent Turkey and to compete in varied environments
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Patience in growth — from playing in youth leagues to becoming an NBA and EuroLeague contributor
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Adapting across scales — success in both league and international play shows flexibility
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Leveraging experience back home — returning to Europe to continue impact after NBA years
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