Dražen Petrović’s wax figure returns to public display in Zagreb

A new space dedicated to Croatian basketball legend Dražen Petrović has opened in Zagreb, with his wax figure once again on public display on his birthday.

The new premises of the Dražen Petrović Foundation were officially opened on Thursday at Dražen Petrović Square, giving visitors another opportunity to honour one of the greatest players in Croatian and international basketball.

The opening was attended by Zagreb Deputy Mayor Luka Korlaet, who said the city continued to preserve the memory of Petrović and his sporting achievements.

“Dražen Petrović was not only one of the greatest Croatian athletes of all time, but also a symbol of excellence, dedication, hard work and perseverance,” Korlaet said.

He added that Petrović had left a lasting mark on Croatian and world basketball through his talent, character and work ethic, continuing to inspire young athletes.

Korlaet also thanked the Petrović family, the foundation, the Dražen Petrović Museum and all partners involved in bringing the project to completion.

The new space is located in the Cibona passage, near the exit towards Florijana Andrašeca Street. The City of Zagreb has made the premises available for the foundation’s use.

One of its main attractions is a wax figure of Petrović created by French artist Elisabeth Daynes. It depicts the basketball star wearing the number 3 jersey of the New Jersey Nets, the NBA team for which he played during his career.

The figure’s return to public display offers visitors an opportunity to remember a player whose influence extended well beyond Croatia.

The Dražen Petrović Foundation has been operating since 1996, with a mission to preserve his legacy and promote the development of basketball. It also supports talented young Croatian basketball players in their education and professional development, including through summer basketball seminars in Croatia and abroad.

Petrović, widely regarded as one of the most influential European basketball players of his generation, helped pave the way for European talent in the NBA.

His legacy remains an important part of Croatia’s sporting identity, while the foundation continues to support the next generation of basketball players.