By Ruben Alcaraz

 

Just finished the European Championship in Turkey where he averaged 10.9 points, 12.1 rebounds (leader) and 2.1 blocks per game, Eurohopes talks with Yankuba Sima (’96) about his new destination and his thoughts after this great past season for him. Sima just announced that he will play next season at Arlington Country Day (Florida).

-Which are the main reasons to continue your career at United States? Do you think that is better choice to go to States that stay in Europe only in specifically cases or in all cases?
The reason why I have chosen to leave is for continue my basketball career and square with academics. I believe that is a good choice for me but not for everybody.
-Why you chose Arlington Country Day?
I chose them because is a well-known prep school where they work really well physically and skills and they will help me to pass academics that is the hardest part for me.
-When you decide to go to a prep school is with a college future in your mind. Any college contacted you?
Exactly, I’m going to ACD for adapt my game to American style and improve my English. I want to go to a good program. Yes, several colleges have been contacted last months.
-Which aspects of your game do you want to focus more to improve next season?
I want to work more in my body that needs to be better to play in a high level of division 1 and improve my English.
-In only one year you go from completely unknown in Europe to surprise everyone at Albert Schweitzer Tournament in Mannheim (Germany) to consolidate you like a big prospect at U18 European Championship that just finished. How you doing?
Working hard every day you can get everything that you want but you need passion and sacrifice.
-Where will be Yankuba Sima in 5 years?
I don’t know but I hope that in the elite of basketball. I would love to play in NBA but if is not possible play at Euroleague level.

 

Photo: FIBA Europe

 

Twitter of the author: @Filipy09