By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Nikola Milutinov is now willing to add pressure on himself ahead of the 2019 FIBA World Cup by concentrating on anything else aside the Serbian National Team. Interviewed by Serbian TV station B92, the 24-year-old center explained why he is not preoccupied with the latest developments on his future with Olympiacos.
“I am focused on the National Team. I do not know what will happen next, we will see. I am honestly only thinking about the National Team. I am currently happy where I am. I am satisfied with my progress. I am not obsessed with what will happen in the future” he pointed out.
It is now safe to claim that Olympiacos will retain Milutinov until the his contract ends next June. The Reds turned down CSKA Moscow’s offer, while the San Antonio Spurs, who hold his NBA rights, have not taken any action ahead of his NBA-out clause that expires in July 20th. As for his National Team, Serbia is gearing up for the 2019 FIBA World Cup.
“I have not played a game for a long time. I came here with a lot of positive energy” he explained commenting on Serbia’s preparations for the tournament set to take place at China between August 31st and September 15th.
“We have a great team, not only in my position. All 18 players are of high quality, many of them from the EuroLeague and the NBA” he mentioned on Serbia’s preliminary squad and added: “The road to the Final is very difficult. Many expect us to make it to the Final and face USA, but we have to test our strength against many good teams.”