Zalgiris Kaunas star Sylvain Francisco emphasized that going to the NBA remains his main focus heading into the offseason amid EuroLeague rumors.
Zalgiris Kaunas guard Sylvain Francisco addressed his offseason plans after a 107-75 win over Juventus Utena in Game 1 of the Lithuanian League finals.
Despite rumors linking him with a decision to stay in the EuroLeague, Francisco made it clear that his main goal remains the NBA.
"Rumors are everywhere, but right now I'm thinking about the NBA," Cisco said when discussing his future. "Yes, despite everything, the main goal is the NBA. Things can change, but that is the place I want to go. Like I said, rumors are everywhere. Right now, I'm focused on the finals."
"Kaunas, any other team that wants me. I'm not paying attention to that right now. The cards are in my hands, so I have to take my time," the Zalgiris leader added.
According to the latest reports, Francisco has been linked with a move to ASVEL Villeurbanne on a lucrative multi-year deal.
According to French league president Philippe Ausseur, ASVEL's budget is expected to reach €40 million. Per BasketNews' Donatas Urbonas, the club is set to spend between €20 million and €25 million on player salaries.
Francisco was happy to see ASVEL getting back on the right track.
"Obviously, it's amazing," the player said about ASVEL's budget for next season. "This season, it was a team that had a lot of ups and downs, especially financially. But now the club is getting back on the right track, it will have a great team and one of the best budgets in the league.
"Villeurbanne is my hometown, so what I see is a plus: there is an opportunity to bring in stronger players and have a better team that can compete in the EuroLeague," he added.
Tony Parker, the French legend and former shareholder and president of the club, is expected to take over ASVEL from next season.
Speaking about Parker likely taking over ASVEL next season, Francisco said that Parker's experience as a legendary point guard should make his transition into the head coaching role easier.
"I think that with all the financial problems, it was difficult for him. I don't think he disappointed anyone, and he tried to be better," the player said about Parker. "He has a huge influence not only in Lyon, but also across France and in the United States.
"We'll see how he does as a head coach. Basketball is more modern now than it was when he played in the NBA. But Tony was a point guard, so that makes life easier for a new coach. I don't think coaching is easy, but if you have a good staff, everything will be fine.
"I believe Vincent Collet will also work at ASVEL. We'll see how everything turns out, but over time, Parker's teams will only get better," he added.
Support BasketNews so we could make even better content.
If you like our content, please click here and add us as your preferred source. It helps us a lot, and we are committed to delivering you the very latest basketball news.