“Troy Daniels’ shooting ability is what we were looking for in that position. It is true that this is first European experience, but he has a respectable NBA career behind him. He will need some time to adapt, but I am convinced that this choice will also prove to be correct,” says Olimpia’s general manager Christos Stavropoulos. Daniels played in the NBA for seven seasons, his last experience was in Denver and before that he was with the Lakers during the season that brought to them an NBA title. “I’m happy to be here, I know I’ll have to adapt, but basketball is basketball and I have the experience to adapt quickly, even if it’s my first time playing overseas,” says Daniels.
On his first time in Europe – “I spoke with Malcolm Delaney before coming here and also with a couple of NBA players who came to Europe. They told to me that the biggest difference is the physicality of the game, which is bigger here. It is mostly about adjusting mentally. I’m not worried, basketball is basketball everywhere. The difference is the physicality, but the key is how you mentally approach it”.
On being Kevin Punter’s replacement – “I don’t feel any extra pressure, I’ve been a pro for eight/nine years and I know what I have to do. What interests me is to help the team win as many games as possible, to reach its goals.”
The influence of Coach Messina – “He is definitely a coach you want to play for. He has a great NBA experience, understands the players and how to coach the game. His presence was decisive for me, just like it was for Jerian Grant. As a player you want to be coached by the best and Messina is definitely one of them”.
His game – “Everyone knows I’m a shooter, but I think I can bring more to this team than just shooting. What I would like to do is to be a good locker room guy, someone who helps the team in every aspect, above all to win. In college, I played for Coach Shaka Smart who placed defense above all. I know the game from both sides.”.
The season away from the game – “A year is long, I tried to stay in shape in case some other opportunity came up from the NBA, but it’s not the same thing. I haven’t played a competitive five-on-five in a long time and that can. But I expect the rust to go away in a couple of weeks. I will find a way to manage it. In practice, I had some five-of-five already. I will find a way to figure it out.”
Playing in the EuroLeague as an undrafted player – “Playing against nine players who were selected when I have not, is always motivating. But at this point it is not very important. What really motivates me is helping the team to go as far as possible.”
