Djordje Drenovac ('92) is the last bet of Lottomatica Roma, according to serbian media (Mondo). The serbian forward has already signed with the italian "squadra" after two years playing in Austria, where he landed in the summer of 2008 with only 16 years old. Last season he averaged 8.3 points and 2.8 rebounds with Arkadia Lions in the Bundesliga, while this summer he participated in the U-18 Division "A" European Championship held in Vilnius (Lithuania). Eurohopes contacted him.

 

-You arrived with 16 years at Austria (Arkadia). What have you learned in these two seasons in first division?
First of all I gained some experience how to be professional, live alone, take care of myself eventhough I was young... As a player I felt how to play stronger against more physically dominant players. All initially was weird, but I adapted to everything, enjoying the game. I think I've made the right decision going there.

 

-What do you expect of Rome?
First of all I'm very glad that my former club allowed me to go to Rome. Lottomatica is a great club. It won't be easy, but we also wanted to see and feel the Euroleague level.

 

-What have been the main reasons for your decision?
The main reason is primarily a challenge. A call from a great club cannot be refused so easy. I want to see where I am, and to make sure what is my level. Time will tell.

 

-This summer you couldn't make the same performance as the '91 generation in the U-18 EC (gold last year). What are your sensations after the tournament held in Vilnius?
We had a good team, good coach, we have worked well. Bu we had no luck in the semifinal game, and we tragically lost. We show that we have a great generation in the years to follow. 

 

Photo: FIBA Europe / Robertas Dackus