Jabari Parker, Partizan’s new player, spoke to Basketball Sphere about the course of preparations so far, his decision to put on the black-and-white jersey, and his stint in Barcelona.
(Basketball Sphere in Lucca)
Jabari Parker is the kind of addition Partizan needed. For some time, the club’s front office had been looking for a proper power forward, and they found it in the form of a major reinforcement. That the former No. 2 NBA Draft pick would become one of the team’s cornerstones was already evident at the preparation tournament in Lucca, where the black-and-whites were dominant with two convincing wins. The American made a big contribution both against Napoli (17 points) and Virtus (8 points), while also showing his leadership qualities by giving guidance to the younger players.
“These were good games; these are the moments when we try to get to know each other better. We had an excellent preseason behind us, almost everyone arrived on time, and that’s very important because the season is long and it’s about to start. I’m familiar with these players. I played with Sterling Brown back in high school, I know Shake Milton and Frank Ntilikina from the NBA, and I also played against Tyrique Jones. This is a group of guys that made me want to take a risk and sign with Partizan,” Jabari Parker told Basketball Sphere.
Claim Now The call from Zeljko Obradovic was of great importance, as was the chance to work with the decorated coach — something Parker explained in detail.
“I’ve heard he’s always there to reach out to players. When Partizan received information that there was a possibility I might leave Barcelona, he called me. I’m not saying my previous coaches weren’t good, but he reminds me of those who coached me in college and in high school. He reminds me of my father. I like that kind of approach because it’s exactly what I need. I was missing that part of the coaching aspect, and my impression is that he will bring the best out of me.”
When it comes to leaving Barcelona, Jabari Parker didn’t want to speak in a negative tone. Instead, he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete at the highest level in Europe.
“Barcelona gave me the chance to leave — it was my decision. I had no problems with the organization; I respect them a lot and I owe them. It was wonderful. It wasn’t a bad experience, it was a dream come true. It wasn’t just about making the playoffs, we always wanted trophies. I don’t want to say I left the club because of bitterness, I simply wanted a change and to play for Partizan, with these players.”
His former teammate Kevin Punter spent a long period in Belgrade and was the right person to talk to about his new club.
“I love him. The way he spoke so highly about this environment gave me a clearer picture of everything. Of course, I’d love to play with him again, but at this moment, I wanted Partizan because with this group of guys I feel we can win the EuroLeague title. I’m not taking anything away from Barcelona, but I needed this challenge,” Jabari Parker concluded to Basketball Sphere.
