“Jerian Grant is physically strong, can play two different positions and has already done well in the Greek league.” Thus Christos Stavropoulos introduces the playmaker fresh from the semifinal series of the Hellenic League at Promitheas, but after five years spent in the NBA (New York, Chicago, Orlando and lastly in Washington) where he got as a first round pick of the Knicks, from Notre Dame. He also carry with him a last name and a pedigree that mean a lot in the world basketball. “I’m happy to be here. I’m excited to build on the success they had last season, ”says Grant.

Coach Messina’s influence on his choice – “For me it was huge. For him to have had all those years in the NBA, knowing how to treat the players, how to coach the game, the mentality of having been here and there, I think it is huge for any players who has been in the NBA coming overseas to have a coach who knows both.”

His style of play – “I think one of the best things about Coach Messina is that he lets his players to play on their strengths. Me, being able to play the pick and roll, he is allowing me to do that and allow me to play my game that’s one of the reasons I chose to come here, because he allows his players to do what they do best.”

How his family of professional basketball players (father Harvey and uncle Horace, but also brothers) affected him – “It was special, to be able to go out there, have all the countries, all the best players from around the world playing against at each other. And to come out on top, not many people can say they have done that, you get only one chance every four years, so for him it was very special”

His brother’s Olympic success – “It was special, to be able to go out there, have all the countries, all the best players from around the world playing against at each other. And to come out on top, not many people can say they have done that, you get only one chance every four years, so for him it was very special.”

His role on the team – “I’m ready to play my role, being ready to play when I step on the court, whatever minutes I get, I’ll be ready to go, ready to help the team, ready to play well. I’m all about winning, so whatever Coach Messina has in mind I’ll be ready for whenever I step on the court.”