By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Here’s what the most decorated head coach in the history of European basketball said in a lengthy interview for Telegraph.rs:
On the FIBA qualification system for the World Cup:
“That is a disaster, it doesn’t make any sense. The question repeats itself if someone will forbid the players to play. My opinion is that the player should always play. But in the summer period. But to stop during the mid of the season… that is stupid. Now Bogdan (Bogdanovic) can’t come from the NBA and (Nikola) Kalinic can’t play (for the Serbian national team). That’s his decision but if he hurts himself the club will say “We are sorry, go ask money from FIBA.”. I will have the biggest problem because I have 10 international players.”
On Nikola Jokic not joining the Serbian team to focus on individual workouts
“He’s an extraordinary player. I personally think that playing for the national team would help him. Playing for your country… I see it as the greatest honor in a career. I see that everybody tries to find an excuse for Jokic not coming. What bothers me most is the story that he should be working out individually. We are probably all Indians according to the (coaching) program in Denver (Nuggets).
He (Nikola Jokic) finished the season in May. There is plenty of time to rest until July. Don’t get me wrong, he’s an excellent boy, a good kid. Of course, the national team is entirely different with him. But why Teodosic (the interview was given before the news that Milos won’t participate in the EuroBasket) never cared about taking a break? He has the right to say that, he’s been there for years.
You want a special program? Do it in the morning and be with your national team in the afternoon. Everything can be done if the player wants it. The boy is probably thinking in a different way or someone is giving him advice. I respect that, but I have a right to my own opinion.
On Marko Guduric replacing Bogdan Bogdanovic in Fenerbahce:
I wouldn’t like for Marko to have the pressure of being compared with Bogdanovic because everybody will do that. It’s normal. I wouldn’t like it because he has his own style. I chose him, I believe he can be a player who will offer a lot to Fenerbahce. I would be happier if he builds a career as Bogdan’s.
On Bogdan Bogdanovic signing with the Sacramento Kings.
When we spoke, it was clear that he wanted to go to the NBA. Financial motives were not the priority. He has the wish to succeed and he thinks he can make it. It’s up to him.