The Cats have perhaps pulled off the recruiting coup of the year with former NBA Champion Vlade Divac coming to Simonds Stadium for a tryout.

Divac, a 213cm former center for the LA Lakers, Sacramento Kings and Charlotte Hornets, was quick to learn the skills of AFL after being put through some lessons from Jimmy Bartel and Joel Selwood.

In a NBA career spanning over 16 years Divac scored over 13,300 points and grabbed 9,326 rebounds. An NBA All-Star in 2001, Divac also won two Olympic silver medals and two World Championships in 1990 and 2002.  

Divac was in town to cheer on compatriot Novak Djokovic in the Australian Open and also a series of speaking engagements for his foundation.

Whilst he was at home on the hard-court Divac said he and fellow international sportsman were impressed by the talents of AFL footballers referring to them as gladiators.

With Divac eligible for an International Rookie spot, the Cats recruiters had their eyes on the 44 year old, with former Cats star Brad Ottens not able to get near measuring up to him.

Whilst Divac's work with his foundation and as President of the Serbian Olympic Committee keep him busy, fans are urged to keep their eyes peeled in the future.

For those in Geelong, Divac will be speaking at the Serbian Club (122 Ballarat Rd. Hamlyn Heights) on Friday February 1st from 6.30pm.