HLA recruits Sean McDonnell
HLA Alicante has announced the addition of Sasa Borovnjak, a veteran forward with dual Serbian roots and international exposure, to the Lucentia squad. The 2.06-meter center is returning to LEB Gold, a league where he stood out as one of the most impactful players during the 2020-21 season. Borovnjak previously suited up for Saint-Chamond in the French ProB last season and made a strong impression in his most recent stint in LEB Oro with Destino Palencia, where he earned a reputation as a decisive inside presence. In that campaign, he posted 14.4 points, 5.1 rebounds, and a player impact rating of 13.5, establishing himself as the focal point of Palencia’s offense. His arrival in Alicante adds a proven scoring and rebounding option to the team, strengthening the squad’s interior dynamic.
Before moving to Spain, Borovnjak spent five seasons in the Portuguese league, where he signing with FC Porto after a standout initial season with Lusitânia Expert, during which he average over 20 points per game. His performances helped him collect league MVP honors twice and contributed to Porto’s triumphs in domestic competitions, including the 2017 Portuguese Super Cup and the 2019 Taça de Portugal, among other accolades. These achievements underscored his ability to translate individual talent into team success at a high level in European basketball.
Borovnjak first arrived in Spain in 2013, joining Herbalife Gran Canaria. His early Spanish experience also included a stint with Zornotza in LEB Plata, sandwiched between seasons in Portugal, before continuing to develop his game in Portugal’s top flight. This diverse European background has equipped him with versatility, experience in multiple styles of play, and a capacity to contribute across various lineup configurations.
At the international level, Borovnjak has collected caps with the Portuguese national team, competing in continental events such as the FIBA European Cup while representing FC Porto. He has participated in qualification windows that exposed him to high-caliber competition and a broad range of tactical approaches. This international exposure adds another layer of experience and leadership to the Alicante roster, which can benefit younger teammates when facing demanding league schedules and European-style ball movement.
Rafa Monclova commented on the acquisition, emphasizing the strategic fit Borovnjak offers. He noted the need for a true five who can deliver consistent interior scoring while balancing the offense with effective ball movement. Monclova highlighted Borovnjak’s pick-and-roll proficiency and his ability to create opportunities both for himself and for teammates; he praised the Serbian-born player for understanding the league, having competed at a high level in LEB Oro, and for his successful stints with top clubs like FC Porto. The move to Alicante was described as ideal, given Borovnjak’s familiarity with the club, the fan base, and the arena, which collectively support a smooth transition and immediate impact. Monclova added that Borovnjak represents a top-tier talent in the league and brings a strong veteran presence to a rapidly evolving squad, signaling excitement about the team’s direction for the upcoming season.