Latvia star Kristaps Porzingis is looking forward to EuroBasket, aiming to help his national team make a deep run on home soil.
Kristaps Porzingis is gearing up for EuroBasket with Latvia and is feeling optimistic about his national team’s chances, while also praising the Greek squad and NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“I wouldn’t say it makes it more difficult. It’s just exciting, you know, that the fans are waiting for me to put this jersey on, to play alongside this guy, just to be in my home country, to represent my country on a big stage,” Porzingis said during the interview with ole.gr's Manos Fyrogenis about Latvia’s status as a host nation.
The 30-year-old forward acknowledged the tough competition Latvia will face in Group A, which includes teams like Serbia, Spain, France, Slovenia, Turkey, Germany, and Greece.
“There’s going to be crazy competition. And we’re a small country, but we’ve had good success lately and we want to make a big, big surprise this year,” he added.
Porzingis also shared his thoughts on the Greek team, particularly Giannis Antetokounmpo.
“Yeah, obviously, they’re a different animal with Giannis on the floor… They’re going to be one of the favourites, probably easily a top five team,” he said.
“He’s unbelievable, honestly. He’s one of the best players for a few years now already. He’s been the MVP. He’s won a championship, leading his team. He’s a special, special guy.”
Porzingis also complimented other Greek players he knows from the NBA and EuroLeague.
“I played with Tanasis in New York. We’re close. Kostas also. I know some of the NBA guys, and some EuroLeague legends. They have a great team.”
Off the court, Porzingis shared his admiration for Greece as a country.
“Greece is a wonderful country. I love this place. I love the food. I love the people here. I love their passion for basketball.”
He even hinted that Europe could be part of his future. “I’ve always had this in the back of my mind, to potentially maybe play in Europe towards the end of my career… For me, there’s no better place to live than in Europe.”
Porzingis also spoke about his love for Athens and the Greek islands: “I’ve been to Athens now, second or third time. I’ve been all over the islands and I love Greece so much, honestly… Food is unbelievable. Probably my favorite cuisine is Greek. So yes, Greece is very close to my heart.”
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