Marko Arapovic ('96) is the current #1 of Eurohopes 1996 ranking. The son of former international croatian center Franjo plays for Cibona, but some days ago some rumors appeared around a possible interest from spanish powerhouse Real Madrid. 6'9'' forward talked for us explaining some interesting things.

 

-How is your season doing in Cibona?
My season in Cibona is doing great. We are doing a good job in the junior and the cadet state championship so far. I'm training with the senior team since coach Jasmin Repesa came, and maybe I will get some minutes in the croatian league if I practice and work hard.
 

-What do you expect of it as a team?
We have big expectations. We are one of the best cadet teams and we will try to win it and we have big chances for that. About the junior team we are a lot younger than the other junior teams, so our main goal would be to make it to the final four and do a surprise there.
 

-Two seasons in a row with Croatia winning the U16 European title. How do you see the competition this summer?
We have a good U16 team again this year and we're going to do our best to defend the title for the third time in a row.
 

-Some croatian players like Mislav Brzoja left to the States. Is an option for you?
For sure is an option, but for now I'm going to stay in Cibona because I have good coaches who are working with me. And I also have the possibility to train with seniors. But if a good college offer comes, who knows.
 

-You were selected for Jordan Brand for the International Game in USA. How are your sensations after that?
Well I'm very happy and honored to be selected. We were all working very hard for it in London, and the work came back. I'm going to do my best in the States. I just need to work very hard, and a lot.
 

-Some weeks ago was rumored that Real Madrid was trying to sign you. What can you tell about that?
I can't tell you much about Real Madrid now. I still don't know much about it. It is the best if it stays a rumor fot now.

 

Photo: Jurica Galoic / PIXSELL