Real Madrid

What was the key to your success at Maccabi?

I loved that team, we had good chemistry. Everyone knew the role they had to play. We were pretty much like a powerhouse there, so we were able to take the Cup.

Tell us a little bit about your style.

I consider myself a great shot blocker. I like to pass the ball a lot too and my team-mates love me for that. I serve them assists and points. I’m a good mid-range shooter and I love running the floor. The more you’re on the floor the easier points you get. I love doing those things.

You’ve won accolades in Germany and Belgium for shot blocking…

I led their rankings in shot blocking and also the Euroleague’s last year.

What are your personal goals at Real Madrid?

As I said, I’m a team player and I want to do whatever the team needs me to do, whether it is, shot blocking, passing…

All three tournaments are important for the team this year. What chances do you think you have in each?

You have to start by taking it step by step. You have to crawl before you walk. The players who have been here before me will need to guide me in the right direction.

Have any of your new team-mates impressed you?

The few I know are Tomic and Garbajosa. I think Tomic has tremendous upside and he is improving every day. I know Garbajaosa’s NBA background and I’ll learn a lot from him. I’m sorry for not knowing much about the rest, but I’m sure I’ll learn a lot about them when it’s time.

Clay Tucker just signed for the team as well. You must be looking forward to meeting a fellow countryman…

It will be very nice to be able to speak English with another American player. We will be able to relate a lot with each other when I won’t be able to relate as much with the others. It’s going to be interesting.

You are very keen to learn Spanish…

Yes, I am. I envy people who can speak more than one language. This is the third time I’ve moved around and I realise you need to learn and know some Spanish. I’ll tell myself that every day.

Are you looking forward to getting to know the city?

Yes. I even googled which the best city in Spain and Madrid had a higher rating than Barcelona.

You said you are also used to this type of weather.

I’m used to all the different seasons, cold, hot… It’s not a big deal for me at all.

Welcome to Real Madrid and good luck.

Thank you very much.