By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Once he arrived in Athens he made the following comments on aekbc.gr:
– 37 years have gone by since the Greek Cup title with AEK in 1981. What do you remember from that time?
“37 years have passed? Unfortunately, I did not keep in touch with any of my teammates, even if I wish I had. As far as my memories, they are wonderful. I had the intention to return and play in Athens for many years since it is the perfect place to play basketball until you retire. I am excited to be back because when I left, I had the intention of coming back, but unfortunately, it did not happen.”
– Do you remember the Cup Final against Iraklis?
“It was a unique feeling. Walking inside the court for a title game. I had not been in that arena, and when we walked in, the fans were throwing papers. We played very well, and it was nice to play good in that game and win. I was happy for the competition, for my teammates and it was a great opportunity for me to play for a trophy.”
– What did you miss from Greece all of these years?
“Unfortunately and I’m sorry about that, I have not been able to come back since then and so there are some things I have missed. To be honest, there are just a few things that I did not miss. The Meditteranean food is something I remember with pleasant memories, and I want to enjoy it now that I am here again. Besides, I also missed the workouts and the practices we had when we were young kids. We were having a great time in a great environment. Generally, I love Greek people, because they love basketball and are enthusiastic about it. I miss the atmosphere fans create in the court.”
– Can AEK Athens win the Basketball Champions League competition? Will your presence help?
“Of course I hope so, but I think that it has to do more with the talent of the players in the court. I will just sit at the standings.”
– In your career, you played many finals as a player and as a coach. What would you advise the AEK players to be emotionally ready?
“Everything has to do with concentration and being focused to the plan. They have to play hard and play for each other. A Final Four is not a good time to play for yourself or deal with anything other than the game. My advice is to not be afraid to sacrifice and to play hard to win the game.”
– What were your initial thoughs once you received the invitation to come to Athens?
“I was excited. I told my wife and my children how many beautiful and unique memories I have here. I always wanted to come back to Greece, but I did not have the opportunity to do it. I am happy to be back again.”