By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
Vincent Poirier said that he had the opportunity to join the Boston Celtics before the completion of the 2018-2019 season and play in the NBA playoffs with the team. However, he chose to stay with Baskonia in hopes of possibly competing in the EuroLeague Final Four.
“They were in contact with my agents, not with me. But I preferred to finish the season with Baskonia. We organized the EuroLeague Final Four and I really wanted to participate. We failed to make it but I don’t regret staying until the end of the season. They wanted me for the playoffs, but it’s not easy to integrate on such a team. I think it was better for me to wait, do the training camp, preseason and start the new season with them,” Poirier said to Basket USA.
The Celtics officially signed Poirier in July. He had completed his second year in EuroLeague as the leading rebounder of the competition.
“It was an objective of me. I can’t wait to discover the city, the franchise and the fans. A new chapter opens and I hope to be the best player possible,” Poirier said.
Poirier has already talked with Celtics head coach Brad Stevens plus his frontline mate Enes Kanter.
“I’ve spoken with the coach. He knows me as all members of the club. He told me what he expects of me. He knows what I can bring to the team and I think he likes my profile. He’s a great coach and I’m happy to play for him. I have also talked with Enes Kanter but not about the game. He’s a good guy and I hope we’ll perform well this season to do some great things with Boston. A legendary franchise.”