By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
For the first time since it was officially announced that he’ll be part of the Spanish national team as a naturalized player, American-born EuroLeague guard Lorenzo Brown talked about joining the squad and explained he made this decision.
“I’m happy to be here. I want to thank everyone for allowing me to be here. The Federation, the players. It’s an honor to wear this jersey,” Brown said per multiple Spanish media. “Honestly, I’ve never thought I’d see myself in this situation.”
“Playing with these players is going to make me grow because they are part of great teams in Europe and in the NBA,” Brown added. He was invited to join the team after a standout season in Russia with Unics Kazan that also led to a contract with Maccabi Tel Aviv earlier in the offseason.
The Spanish Federation has been under criticism for giving Brown the opportunity to play for the national team. “I don’t get into politics,” Brown commented. “It’s not my business. I play basketball. I couldn’t say no to this opportunity that presented itself. I grew up watching this team with players Pau or Marc. It’s an honor and I’m looking forward to starting.”
Spain coach Sergio Scariolo welcomed Brown to the team on the media day organized by the federation and particularly hailed the “commitment” and “desire” he has shown. “The place of birth or the color of the skin have never been the identifying aspects of this team,” Scariolo said.
“He’s a player who comes to help,” said Spain captain Rudy Fernandez. He had previously expressed doubts regarding Brown’s participation on the team. “I prefer players who join the team to others who ignore Sergio’s [Scariolo] call. Lorenzo is going to give us a very big bonus when it comes to competing against the best.”
Sergio Llull is another Spanish star who has already appreciated Brown’s enthusiasm. “He’s another teammate. He’s excited and eager to help and intergrate. We’re going to try to make his adaption quick. We all have to row in the same direction.”