AMERICAN AND RUSSIAN BOND UNBREAKABLE IN NOVI GRAD

Basketball Club “Sloboda 73” from Novi Grad has entered the new season in the First League of Republika Srpska with high ambitions. Among their latest additions, two names stand out: Taeshon Bradford and Nikita Shurat.

PHOTO: Glas Srpske

This American-Russian duo has drawn attention not only for their performance on the court but also for their inseparable bond off it. Despite the political tensions between their home countries, Taeshon and Nikita have risen above it all, becoming best friends and roommates in their new environment. On the court, the dynamic between the diminutive point guard and the towering 208-centimeter Russian center is nothing short of impressive.

“We understand each other perfectly. We live together and talk about so many things. We know we’re here for basketball, and that’s our priority, as well as the success of our club. Recently, we talked about food—his in Russia and mine in the U.S. We also chat about other interesting aspects of our cultures. We’re exploring the city, and I must say Novi Grad has a lot of beautiful girls, especially on Fridays and Saturdays,” Nikita Shurat joked in an interview with Glas Srpske. “Of course, that’s just me talking—Taeshon is taken; he has a girlfriend. The team has welcomed us really well. A few people have even recognized me on the street and wished me luck.”

Taeshon, the Fresno, California native, also has high praise for his Moscow-born teammate, who has played for Khimki's youth teams and in Spain’s fourth league with Zentro Madrid.

“He’s a great player and an even better guy. This is my first time playing with someone from Russia, and his English surprised me—it’s really good. Before I joined Sloboda, the coach told me about a 208-centimeter-tall guy who would help us a lot. We clicked right away. He’s playing great, averaging a double-double, and I hope our partnership continues—maybe even at another club in the future. Here in Novi Grad, I’m focused on basketball, training hard, taking walks, and even writing a blog about my daily life here,” Bradford shared.

The atmosphere in the team, led by young coach Dejan Kukavica, is exceptional. Taeshon and Nikita were even invited to a traditional Serbian celebration by their teammate Sergej Babić.

“I want to thank Sergej for inviting us to his family’s Slava. I felt like I was at home. His entire family was so kind, and I enjoyed the food. Even though I’m not a fan of fish soup, I tried it at Sergej’s and liked it. Rakija is another story—it’s bitter, but it relaxes you quickly,” Nikita said with a laugh.

Taeshon was equally impressed by the hospitality and the experience of attending a Serbian Slava.

“Sergej honored us by inviting us. You know, as a foreigner, you can sometimes feel lonely in another country, but that’s not the case here. I’m happy to have met his family and learned more about the local culture,” Bradford added.

The 24-year-old point guard has had an impressive journey, starting at Porterville College, moving on to Rocky Mountain College, and then playing for Fresno Sun Rays in the U.S. ABA League before joining Sloboda 73. Currently, he is the leading scorer in the First League of Republika Srpska, averaging 21.3 points per game. He scored a season-high 40 points against Student Igokea. Interestingly, Taeshon shoots with his right hand but writes with his left.

“I think the league is very competitive—any team can beat another. The key is to be prepared. I have a great relationship with Coach Dejan, who believes in me and pushes me forward. The team has welcomed me well, and we’re growing together. I expect our best performances in the second half of the season. For now, I’m looking forward to resting at home,” said Bradford.

Nikita Shurat, at just 21 years old, had his best game against Sutjeska from Foča, scoring 21 points and grabbing 12 rebounds.

“The First League of Republika Srpska has several strong teams. I like how Radnik and Prijedor play, and I enjoyed playing against the young, talented players from Student Igokea. As for us, we have a good team, and I believe we can achieve a lot in the second half of the season,” Shurat emphasized.

Bradford admires Milwaukee Bucks star Damian Lillard, while his favorite team is the Sacramento Kings.

“Dame is an incredible player. I’ve heard about Vlade Divac and Peja Stojaković, but I’ve never watched them play,” admitted Bradford.

Nikita, on the other hand, is a die-hard fan of CSKA Moscow, with Timofey Mozgov as his idol.

“I have a photo with Timofey that also includes my family in the background. I’d love to wear the CSKA jersey one day,” Shurat concluded.

Taeshon Bradford has become particularly popular among Sloboda 73’s youngest fans, with many asking for photos and autographs daily.

“I really feel the love from the kids. I try to give it back. I feel the support of everyone in Novi Grad, and I’ve taken so many pictures and signed many autographs,” Bradford revealed.

Unlike Taeshon, who will spend the holidays back home, Nikita will stay in Novi Grad.

“I’m looking forward to the holidays, especially Christmas. Sergej Babić promised to invite me to celebrate Serbian Christmas and show me the traditions here,” Shurat said with excitement.