After turning down an offer of first professional contract from Red Star Belgrade, Nikola Jankovic (’94) has been looking for a new club couple of months. Eventually 18 years old forward has landed in Belgian powerhouse Spirou Charleroi. “I looked at some teams and then decided for Spirou because here is where I believe I can improve. Spirou has also a tradition in working with young players and developing them.” - he explains his decision in interview to Eurohopes.

 - You were looking really long for a new team, why have you finally decided to join Spirou?

It is very important in my age to find the right team, coach and organization where I can make my next steps forward in the right direction. I looked at some teams and then decided for Spirou because here is where I believe I can improve. Spirou has also a tradition in working with young players and developing them.

- Do you think Belgium is a good place for true start in senior basketball? Are you happy with the level of team and league?

Yes, otherwise I would have not chosen Spirou. I believe it is a good fit for me.

- What is your role in team? Do you have any expectations from yourself and your team for season 2012/13?

My goal and expectation is to improve myself and learn as much as possible every day on the senior level. I am practicing hard and believe that if I keep improving that I will get my chances.

- There were some doubts on which positions are you going to play at senior level. Do you prefer be power forward of small forward? Where do you feel better at?

I prefer the power forward position, but of course my goal is to become a great “modern PF” that can dribble, shoot, organize, pass and much more. A modern PF  then it does not matter what position I am placed in.

 

Photo: FIBA Europe / Robertas Dackus