LOWELL, Mass. -- UMass Lowell senior midfielder Jakov Basic (Zagreb, Croatia) has signed a professional contract with HNK Hajduk Split of the Croatian First Football League. 

After spending three seasons as a River Hawk, Basic was invited to the 2019 MLS Combine but elected to forego his eligibility to return home and sign with his dream club. Hadjuk currently sits in sixth place in the top league and has taken home six titles, along with 12 runner-up finishes. 

"I am happy with the opportunity that Hajduk has given to me," remarked Basic. "It has always been my dream to play for this club and I will give my all to help me accomplish what I've wanted since I was a child. I decided to stay in Europe and not enter the MLS Draft because I feel that Europe has a lot more opportunities for me to reach my goal of playing the highest level of soccer."

Basic scored five goals in his time with UMass Lowell and began the 2018 season on the MAC Hermann Award Preseason Watch List. Further accolades includes being a three-time America East All-Conference First Team and United Soccer Coaches All-East Region honoree. In 2017, he was named the America East Midfielder of the Year, as well. 

"We are very happy and excited for the opportunity Jakov has received," noted Head Coach Christian Figueroa. "He has worked hard over the last few years to develop into the player that will be able to compete against very good competition in Europe. With his commitment and dedication, I have no doubt that this is only the first step of his professional career."

The River Hawks went an impressive 33-14-5 with Basic on the squad, including a 14-6-1 mark in conference play with two appearances in the America East Championship.