Kalathis: “I came to Fenerbahce because of Itoudis, if I shot at 50% I would be in the NBA”

Nick Calathes’ transfer to Fenerbahce was one of Turkey’s most sensational moves last summer. The Greek ace left Barcelona and will now join Dimitris Itoudis (his coach with the national team) in the Turkish team.

Kalathis gave a TV interview to Turkey’s S Sport and spoke about the differences between Itoudis and Jasikevicius, the freedom he seeks in a team and his desire to win another EuroLeague title. At the same time, he also spoke about his shooting percentage and said that he would compete in the NBA at 50%, while also referring to his first experience in Europe with Zeljko Obradovic.

His statements to the Turkish S Sport in detail:

On his departure from Barcelona: “I’ve never experienced anything like this in my career. It was difficult because I couldn’t understand exactly what happened. But I’m happy with the result. Everything should be and now I’m at Fenerbahce. I think Barcelona too Leaving and coming here was the right choice for me and I think I fit in well.”

On his decision to join Fenerbahce: “The most important thing for me is to go to a team that has a chance of winning. I’m old now and I want to win the EuroLeague again. I looked at the Fenerbahce squad and came to the conclusion that this was the right choice for me.

Itoudis asked me to come. He knows how I play, we worked together for 12 years. I know what he wants and I’m used to the system he’s playing. So I thought it was the best decision to come here than to go to any other team.

I spoke to him a lot and he is one of the main reasons I came. I know him and I know what he wants from me, like I said. He has trained me in the past. We talked about my role and the future and of course about the team.”

On the differences between Itoudis and Jasikevicius:“As a point guard you want freedom. Especially now that I’m not 20 years old and I know how to play. Saras’ system was tougher and more absolute, he was in control. Itoudis gives his players freedom.” He trusts and believes in you in what you will do. It gives you the freedom to take control of the race.”

For Zeljko Obradovic: “I worked with him when I first came to Europe. I hated my first year in Europe. I never understood European basketball and the game. In my second and third year, I understood and realized how the game should be.”

About his expectations for the new season and his shot rates: “I think we will improve. After all, we all came together. We’ve never played together and it will definitely take time. We have very talented players. People will be amazed when they see the talent we have. I can’t wait to play with the team, let’s all come together and improve as the season progresses.

I’ve always been a player who does a lot on the pitch. On the rebound. assists and defense. Of course I’m not the best shot of all time, but I don’t think I’m a bad shot. If I shot 50% I would be in the NBA. This season will be better than last.”