By Antonis Stroggylakis / info@eurohoops.net
AS Monaco superstar newcomer and four-time NBA All-Star Kemba Walker aspires to not only help his team pursue its goals but also push the EuroLeague brand and game with his presence in the competition.
“I hope I can help increase the notoriety of the EuroLeague,” Walker said upon his arrival at Monaco to join his new club and begin his first overseas experience. “To increase the style of play and just built it up more.”
Walker, arguably the top name to move to Europe this summer and one of the biggest blockbuster signings ever in EuroLeague history, joins Monaco after 785 games in the NBA over 12 seasons. Since he became a pro in 2011, he averaged 19.3 points, 5.3 assists and 3.8 rebounds in his regular-season appearances, along with 19.6 points, 4.8 assists and 3.8 rebounds in the playoffs.
“It’s a big step. Something different. I’m just looking forward to the opportunity. I just want to play basketball,” Walker said. He played in just nine games last season with the Dallas Mavericks, amid knee problems. “And what better place to be than Monaco. It’s going to be fun times.”
At Monaco, Walker will be joining All-EuroLeague member and former Top Scorer Mike James to create a fiery backcourt lineup, along with prominent guards Jordan Loyd and Elie Okobo. Monaco, a club that is making some impressive leaps year by year, is thinking big after making the EuroLeague Final Four for the first time ever last season and winning the French League championship.
“I’m looking forward to be in a different environment. Learning my teammates. Meeting new people… the coaching staff, medical guys, everything. Basketball is basketball. And I’m here to win games.”