Dragan Bender was born on November 17, 1997, in Capljina, Bosnia and Herzegovina. From a young age, he showed a passion for basketball and dreamed of one day playing in the NBA. His talent and potential were evident early on, and he quickly caught the attention of scouts and coaches.
At the age of 17, Bender represented his country at the FIBA U18 European Championship in 2014. It was here that he showcased his skills on an international stage and impressed scouts from both American and European teams. His combination of size, agility, and versatility set him apart from his peers and made him a highly sought-after prospect.
In 2015, Bender was named the MVP of the Basketball Without Borders Global Camp, further cementing his status as one of the top young talents in the world. His performance at the camp caught the eye of NBA scouts, and he soon became a highly anticipated prospect for the upcoming draft.
After spending two years playing for Maccabi Tel-Aviv in Israel, Bender declared for the 2016 NBA Draft. He was selected 4th overall by the Phoenix Suns, fulfilling his childhood dream of playing in the NBA. Bender's debut season was filled with ups and downs as he adjusted to the fast-paced and physical nature of the NBA game.
Throughout his career, Bender has proven to be a versatile player capable of playing both forward and center positions. His ability to stretch the floor and defend multiple positions has made him a valuable asset to any team. While he has faced his fair share of challenges and criticisms, Bender's work ethic and determination have never wavered.
Off the court, Bender is known for his quiet and humble demeanor. He is dedicated to his craft and is always looking for ways to improve his game. Despite his success, he remains grounded and focused on achieving his goals.
As Bender continues to grow and develop as a player, his potential remains limitless. He has the talent and work ethic to become a star in the NBA and leave a lasting impact on the game. With the support of his fans, teammates, and coaches, Bender is poised to achieve great things in the years to come.