A week ago, we reflected on our journey so far. pete mickiel In the world of basketball.A fall in the mud in a race full of obstacles propelled him to become one of the world’s best. The brightest star in Barça’s history. Today he himself explains it to MD, looking back on his youth, his four years with the Curé team, and his four years with the team. mickeal sports club, an international sports organization of which he is the owner. The company he currently makes a living from is dedicated to recruiting talented young players and preparing them to make the leap to professional basketball.

Before we start, Pete, in a career that has had many unforgettable moments, what is your favorite memory of your entire career in the world of basketball?

My favorite moment was when the EuroLeague was launched in Paris in 2010. This was the best year of my career from a basketball and personal standpoint. Not just in basketball, but off the court as well. While playing against Barça with other teams, I always admired the city of Barcelona. And it was a great opportunity for me to live and play in this city, which I had always wanted. When I’m happy off the field, I usually perform well on the field. they are closely related.

It was a historic year for Barça. Euroleague left its mark on the whole city. Looking back on your career, if not, what was the most difficult moment you faced?

I understood from a young age that injuries and disabilities were part of the game. It’s part of the job to play basketball as long as I have. That’s why I’ve always maintained a tough mentality that I can overcome any obstacles that come my way. For me, no obstacle is too big.

“I was inspired by my brother. He died in a murder when I was in high school. He was tough on me, but he kept me grounded.”

Are there any basketball players or people in particular that inspire you?

I was inspired by my brother growing up. He died in a murder case when I was in high school. He was the one who pushed my entire career, because no matter what I did in the basketball world, I never impressed him. He was tough on me, but he also taught me a lot about life and kept me grounded so I could make good decisions off the court. He made sure I never did anything bad on the street and that I had good people around me to help me grow. The day he was murdered, my life and spirit changed forever. Many of my friends I grew up with in high school didn’t help me in any way. So, you see, they chose the wrong path in life.

What a story of overcoming, Pete. You were so strong that you were able to walk on the right path. Looking back on your four years at Barça after flying to Europe, which player on the team did you get along with the most?

All the players were great. I’m lucky enough to respect all of them and my work ethic. That’s how you earned respect too. Boniface Ndong was the closest player I’ve ever been to any team in my career. We had a lot in common. We both worked very hard and came out winners. Moreover, we are fishermen and adventurers. So we had a great trip fishing in Cambrils on our free day. Also, he is just like me and comes from a similar background where he had to work hard to get everything he has achieved in his life. Therefore, there was no alms. Also, Mr. Ndon is a wonderful person. Ricky Rubio was also one of my favorite teammates.

Boniface Ndon is another historic player who played for Barça. Continuing the thread, he says that he likes to visit Cambrils and that they often went fishing together there. Where does your love for fishing come from?

My father taught me how to fish. He is the best fisherman I know. He loves fishing and he taught me how to fish and how relaxing it is. I’ve done that all my life. That’s what I want to do most in the world. It’s all thanks to him.

By the way, why did the Endesa League wear the number 33 on their backs?

I originally wore “32” because I’ve been a big Magic Johnson fan since I was little. Showtime Lakers was from my time, when I was young. But as I got older, I wanted to go to another level and establish my own identity. Since 3 was my favorite number, I chose the perfect number 33.

If you had to choose a coach, who would you choose among all the coaches you have had?

Xavi Pascual.

“Playing against Kobe brought out the best in me. We all laughed together after the game.”

Kobe Bryant, Derek Fisher, Metta World Peace, Lamar Odom, Pau Gasol. They still remember their win in Barcelona against the current NBA champions, the Los Angeles Lakers, and their legend, Kobe. What memories do you have of that game and the famous duel with Kobe?

I knew he was a great competitor. Still, he considered me the best competitor in the world, regardless of where he played. Plus, I’m a winner and I wanted to show the world exactly who I am. Playing with the best players brought out the best in me. I actually laughed a little after the game. It didn’t matter how hard I competed with him on the court. Then we respected each other. I won everything I accomplished in my career, and when there was the most pressure, that’s when I loved competing the most.

What projects or activities have you participated in since retiring as a player?

I spent four years in the NBA as a scout for the Washington Wizards and Minnesota Timberwolves. He then obtained official certification as an NBA and FIBA ​​agent. Currently, I run one of the fastest growing agencies in the world. At Mickeal Sports Group, we support thousands of players around the world and offer personalized plans to maximize the value of your contract.

Mickey Sports Group. For what purpose did you establish this agency in 2020?

We specialize in building success stories and supporting athletes’ careers on and off the court. I empathize with all these young people and have been in all the situations they are in. We help thousands of players realize their sporting dreams and handle all aspects of contract negotiations.

I’ll give it to you in the end, Pete. Recently, my play style has changed a lot. What do you think about the evolution of basketball in recent years?

Basketball is big business. And the more attacks and points you put in on the court, the more chances you have to gain followers and strengthen your marketing within the club. Therefore, to sell more tickets, you need a good three-point shooter who guarantees entertainment. I like the basketball business. I also think European players are improving a lot, and having international players in the NBA and EuroLeague is great for basketball.