The legendary former player will be inducted to the Maccabi hall of fame next month: “I always had a special relationship with our fans. They’re truly the best in the world”
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First of all, how excited are you for your induction into Maccabi’s hall of fame? What do you think you’ll feel when you see your jersey being hung up?
“I am extremely honored to be inducted into the Hall of Fame of one of the great basketball clubs in European basketball history. On the night of the ceremony, I imagine I’ll feel a mixture of being humbled, excited, and proud on the night of the ceremony”.
You’ve won three European titles and a lot more domestic ones during your time in Israel. Out of all those wonderful moments, on and off the court, which one stuck with you the most?
“The Euroleague title that we won in 2004 in Tel Aviv sticks out the most to me because we won it at home, in front of our fans, which allowed everyone to share in the victory on that special night”.
In the years since that great team was at its prime, the legend surrounding it has only become more powerful with the fans. There’s a chance you’re gonna be more popular than you were back then. Are you ready for that?
“I’ve always enjoyed the special relationship that I have with Maccabi fans. I can’t imagine that it will be any more intense than it was when I was a player on the team”.
Can you tell us, now that you have a decade’s perspective, what was your team’s secret ingredient?
“I can’t point to a secret ingredient that made that team special. It was a combination of things that came together that made being a part of that group so special. We had incredibly smart players that were selfless and put the team first. We were versatile, skilled, and we really enjoyed playing together and being around each other off of the court. Our coaches were extremely smart and prepared, and put in a system that maximized our players and allowed us to play at our best. Also, we were blessed to not have any major injuries at the wrong time of the season”.
You work as a scout for Orlando Magic today. Do you see it as a first step towards a career in coaching?
“I see myself as more of a front office, management type as opposed to a coach. But I would never say never”.
Tell us a bit about your work as a scout. What do you look for in a young player, apart from the physical attributes?
“I love my job as a scout because I’ve learned so much about the game in a different way than you learn it as a player. Aside from talent obviously, I look for IQ, toughness, athleticism, an elite skill, and character”.
We have to end with a short message for Maccabi fans that are waiting for you
“To the Maccabi fans: I am extremely excited to come back to Tel Aviv mostly because of you! From the crazies in Gate 11, to the fans that may have never actually been to a game, you are truly the best fans in the world and I’ll always have a special place in my heart for you all. I can’t wait to see you again!”
