BC Vienna has signed Luka Kureš. The 27-year-old Slovenian joins the club from KK Ilirija Ljubljana and becomes Vienna’s fifth new addition ahead of the 2026/27 season.

Kureš is the first guard to join head coach Dragan Bajić’s newly assembled roster. Primarily a shooting guard, he can also take on playmaking duties as a secondary ball-handler while remaining effective off the ball.

“I am very happy to be joining BC Vienna and to begin a new chapter in my career. I want to continue developing as a player, contribute to the team’s success and make the most of every opportunity this season,” said Kureš.

Promotion to the ABA League

Kureš is a native of Ljubljana and began his career with Pingvini Ljubljana in the lower divisions of Slovenian basketball. After spells with Škofja Loka and Hopsi Polzela, he joined Ilirija in 2021.

Over the following years, Kureš developed into one of the team’s key players. He initially made his name as a perimeter shooter before gradually taking on more responsibility as a combo guard and playmaker.

His biggest success with Ilirija came in the 2024/25 season, when the club reached the ABA League 2 final and secured promotion to the AdmiralBet ABA League as runners-up.

Last season, Kureš appeared in 26 games in the competition, averaging 8.8 points, 2.0 assists, 1.7 rebounds and 0.9 steals. He played 24.9 minutes per game and shot 35 per cent from three-point range.

First club outside Slovenia

In Kureš, BC Vienna adds a talented guard who is expected to bring further quality and versatility to the roster.

“Luka is a perimeter player with good ball-handling skills and a very good shot. He can also make a major contribution on the defensive end,” said Bajić.

Kureš also brings considerable experience from 3×3 basketball. He has played more than 240 games in the format and has also represented the Slovenian national team. Quick decision-making, secure ball-handling and frequent one-on-one situations are all part of the 3×3 game and can also be seen in his five-on-five style.

At club level, however, his career has so far remained entirely within Slovenia. By moving to Vienna, he is leaving his home country and his familiar surroundings for the first time.

Bajić believes the move can provide an important boost to his continued development.

“I am convinced that this move will give him additional motivation and represent an important step in the next stage of his career.”