By Nikola Miloradovic / info@eurohoops.net
Real Madrid prevailed over LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne in Round 30 of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague, despite Theo Maledon having a great game.
The talented French guard scored 25 points with five assists for a game-high PIR of 35 and also made it into the EuroLeague history books after shooting 11/11 from the free-throw line. With a total of 182 free throws made this season, he broke Džanan Musa’s all-time record of 178.
After the match, speaking to EFE, he discussed his future.
“I’m someone who focuses on what’s ahead of me. Right now, my goal is to finish the season as well as possible. I know my agents are doing their job, and I let them handle it. Personally, I’m just focusing on how to improve my game and keep progressing,” Maledon said.
He was asked about potentially playing for Real Madrid one day, as the Spanish powerhouse reportedly showed interest in him during the season.
“Obviously, it’s no secret that whenever a team with such history and prestige in Europe shows interest, it’s always a goal. You always want to play for the best teams and compete for titles. Real Madrid is known for being one of those teams. In general, I would love to be there,” the French guard added.
ASVEL’s point guard also reflected on his time in the NBA.
“The last two years in the NBA were pretty tough. I didn’t get many opportunities to play, but I kept working, improving my game, and growing as a player. I was just waiting for my chance. I knew I had to be ready to take advantage of it when it came. ASVEL, Coach, and everyone around me have helped me feel comfortable. I had a great opportunity in front of me, and I think now I’m just proving the work I’ve been putting in and the determination I had during those tough years so I could shine when the time came,” Maledon concluded.
Upon returning to the EuroLeague from the NBA, Maledon has been averaging 16.8 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 4.7 assists per game for ASVEL.