By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
The official presentation of American forward Chase Budinger, the newest signing of Baskonia, took place today in Vitoria, two days of what might be his Euroleague debut (in Belgrade against Crvena Zvezda).
Budinger talked about what he hopes to bring in the game of his new team, the discussions he held with Ricky Rubio before arriving in Spain and how Luis Scola’s previous presence in Baskonia inspires him.
“Baskonia is high level organization. Luis Scola (played for Baskonia from 2000 to 2007) was a mentor to me and it excites me to follow in his footsteps. I also talked with Ricky Rubio who told me the differences between NBA and Europe especially how the game is more physical here.”
The Spanish team’s roster includes no small amount of former NBA-ers, apart from Budinger. There’s Andrea Bargnani, Shane Larkin, Tornike Shengelia (all ex Brooklyn Nets players) as well as French combo guard Rodrigue Beaubois. “It’s very important for me to see that I have some colleagues who have also played in the NBA and have also taken the same steps as me by coming to Europe.”.
When it comes to his condition, he said: “I’m fine physically since I taking part in training camp (with the Brooklyn Nets).I haven’t played in 5 vs 5 for 10-12 days, so I only have to pick up the pace there.”
What will he put on the floor for Baskonia? “I’m a shooter who can slash through the opponents’ defense and of course bring energy to my team. Coach Sito Alonso told me that when an option appears in the game I must take it. He also wants me to help on defense and transition.”
“But the most important thing is being able to contribute on winning games,” he emphasized.