Adam Hanga, the new player of Crvena Zvezda, spoke with Basketball Sphere about his arrival in Belgrade, the fans, and fitting into the system.
Adam Hanga is one of the recognizable faces in the EuroLeague. It all began ten years ago when he joined what was then Laboral Kutxa, now Baskonia. Since then, he has played for two more Spanish giants, Real Madrid and Barcelona, and now, for the first time in 12 years, he’s outside the Iberian Peninsula. The Hungarian player explained what led to his decision to come to Belgrade.
“I chose Crvena Zvezda because I wanted to continue playing in the EuroLeague. They gave me that opportunity, and there was no hesitation on my part. I know it’s a historic team in Serbia, and when I look at my career, I’ve only played for big clubs, and I wanted to continue that tradition. I’m glad to be part of this organization.” – began the reigning EuroLeague champion with Real Madrid.
About the atmosphere in Belgrade
Adam Hanga spent almost his entire career playing against Crvena Zvezda. He emphasizes that it’s always a special feeling whenever he comes to Belgrade, and over the next two years, he will constantly experience that atmosphere.
“Games here in Belgrade have always been special. It’s a great feeling to play in front of this crowd every time. During the COVID season when there were no fans, it was sad at one point without them. It’s always nice to play in a packed arena with passionate fans.” – Hanga spoke highly about the fans.
As is well-known, Hanga won the EuroLeague with Real Madrid last season. First, they made an incredible comeback from a two-game deficit against Partizan in the quarterfinals, and then they defeated their eternal rival Barcelona in the semifinals. In the final, Sergio Llull secured the victory against Olympiacos in the last seconds. Hanga briefly told us what the main characteristics of a championship team are.
“There are many factors involved. Many things need to come together. The EuroLeague season is very long and competitive, so you have to be consistent. You need to recognize when to perform at the highest level. You can be good in December, but it doesn’t mean anything in May and June“.
Fitting in the system of Dusko Ivanovic
Based on what we’ve seen in the preseason, Hanga will be one of the most important pieces for Crvena Zvezda this year. He is an excellent defender. Six years ago, he was named the EuroLeague Defensive Player of the Year. Now, he’s showing that he’s a very good shooter as well. Hanga highlights that he has always been this way and that he’s a true universal soldier.
“I’ve always been like this! Since I came to the EuroLeague, I adapt quickly to every team. We’ll see! I think my role will change from game to game. I played a lot at the point guard position because Shabazz Napier and Milos Teodosic were injured. I don’t think that will be the case during the season, but if I need to play point guard or any other position, I’ll be available.”
Finally, we asked Hanga about the eternal derby. He has been on both sides of “El Clasico,” and now he’ll be on the red and white side of the eternal derby. He had a very concise and brief response.
“I don’t know, we’ll see… I haven’t played the derby here, but one thing I’m almost certain of is that there will be many more people than in Spain.” – concluded Adam Hanga in a conversation with Basketball Sphere.