Iraklis has secured D.J. Funderburk for the 2025-26 season, The 28-year-old, 2.08m (6'10") center will bring a wealth of international experience to the Greek team.
Funderburk has played for several clubs across Europe, including Avtodor, Paris, Reggio Emilia, Hapoel Eilat, and Split. Most recently, he spent the past season in Poland with Anwil Wloclawek.
In Poland, Funderburk was named to the league's All-First Team, showcasing his impact. He averaged 14.7 points (shooting 60% on two-pointers and 73% from the free-throw line), 5.2 rebounds, and an efficiency rating of 15.3 in 22.6 minutes per game across 26 appearances.
In Poland, Funderburk was named to the league's All-First Team, showcasing his impact. He averaged 14.7 points (shooting 60% on two-pointers and 73% from the free-throw line), 5.2 rebounds, and an efficiency rating of 15.3 in 22.6 minutes per game across 26 appearances.
Player Profile
Derek James "D.J." Funderburk Jr. (born April 12, 1997, in Lakewood, Ohio, U.S.) is a center/power forward standing at 2.07m (6'9"). Known for his strong presence in the paint, efficient scoring, and rebounding, Funderburk has consistently performed at a high level across various European leagues.
Career Journey
Funderburk's basketball career has seen him develop through the U.S. collegiate system before making a name for himself in professional leagues across Europe:
Collegiate Career (2017-2021):
Northwest Florida State (2017-18): Played one season at the junior college level.
NC State Wolfpack (2018-2021): Spent three seasons with NC State in NCAA Division I, steadily increasing his production. In his senior year (2020-21), he averaged 12.6 points and 5.7 rebounds.
Professional Career in Europe (2021-Present):
Avtodor Saratov (Russia - VTB League & FIBA Europe Cup, 2021-22): Began his professional career in Russia, posting solid numbers.
Paris Basketball (France - LNB Pro A, 2021-22): Moved to France mid-season.
Reggio Emilia (Italy - Lega Basket Serie A & BCL, 2022-23): Had a brief stint in Italy.
Hapoel Eilat (Israel - ISR-1, 2022-23): Finished the 2022-23 season in Israel, averaging 11.5 points and 4.1 rebounds.
KK Split (Croatia - CRO-1 & ABA-1, 2023-24): Played in both the Croatian League and the Adriatic League, averaging 11.5 points and 4.3 rebounds in the Croatian league, and 11.3 points and 3.8 rebounds in the ABA League.
Anwil Wloclawek (Poland - PLK & FIBA Europe Cup, 2024-25): Had an impactful season, being named to the PLK All-First Team.
Recent Season Stats Highlights
2023-24 (KK Split - CRO-1): Averaged 11.5 points, 4.3 rebounds, and 1.0 assists in 20.3 minutes over 33 games, shooting 56.3% from the field.
2023-24 (KK Split - ABA-1): Averaged 11.3 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 0.9 assists in 22.8 minutes over 25 games.
2024-25 (Anwil Wloclawek - POL-1): Posted impressive averages of 14.7 points, 5.2 rebounds, and 0.5 assists in 22.6 minutes over 26 games, with strong shooting percentages (60.3% FG, 45.2% 3P, 73.3% FT).
2024-25 (Anwil Wloclawek - FIBA Europe Cup): Averaged 10.7 points and 3.8 rebounds in 20.8 minutes over 12 games.
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