Justin Robinson is one of the most experienced additions to Barcelona’s new-look roster, and the 28-year-old point guard arrives with previous Liga Endesa experience and a season at Paris behind him.
Speaking to Mundo Deportivo, Justin Robinson discussed his decision to join Barcelona, the challenge of integrating so many new players, his role in the project, and his connection with Kevin Punter.
Justin Robinson excited about his decision to join Barcelona
Robinson revealed that there were several options on the table before he decided to join Barcelona, but he felt the opportunity was the right one for him.
“I’m very excited, I feel blessed. I can’t complain. Obviously, the city of Barcelona is beautiful, being in a wonderful organization like this… and the type of players they’ve brought in around me is a joy for me so far. I’m excited for what’s coming.”
A new-look roster will need time
Barcelona have made significant changes to their roster, with Robinson acknowledging that many of his new teammates have little or no previous EuroLeague or European experience.
“Well, definitely there are a lot of new guys. A lot who don’t have EuroLeague experience, or some who haven’t even been in Europe in general. So I try to teach them how things work or make them feel at home, since I’ve been playing abroad for a couple of years. And it’s great. The guys who were already here have been very welcoming to everyone, including me. Feeling that love and that atmosphere, and seeing that the organization is so focused on goals, is going to be great for us.”
Robinson also admitted that he has never previously been part of a team with such a large number of new players.
“No, I don’t think I’ve ever had this many, especially without previous experience in Europe or at that specific level. But I think we’ll adjust quickly. Obviously, there will be difficulties at the beginning, it won’t be perfect right away, but we’ll figure it out.”
Robinson expects an energetic Barcelona
With patience likely to be important during the early stages of the season, Justin Robinson believes the new group has the potential to become something special.
“I really hope so. I think this group can be special if given time. We’re going to be very energetic, athletic, run a lot, share the ball and show that love for each other. Like I said, it won’t be perfect right away, but I think we have the opportunity to finish the year very well.”
Asked what Barcelona fans can expect from the team at the start of the season, Robinson highlighted the change in pace and style that the new roster is expected to bring.
“There will be some mistakes, but also some very positive signs. There will be wins and losses, as always. But I think the idea of changing the pace of the game, running up and down, being a faster team than they have been in previous years… I think that’s the style of the players they’ve brought in. Being the ‘head of the snake’ in that sense and coming in to build a project like this is a blessing for me, I’m very grateful.”
Justin Robinson on his role and Kevin Punter
Robinson sees himself as a player who can adapt to whatever the team needs, while also embracing a leadership role within the new project.
“I’m the type of player who does ‘whatever it takes.’ Obviously, I see myself as a leader. I’ve established that from the beginning, but without trying to step on anyone’s toes, just saying what I think is needed. Regarding the style of play… I have some experience with it; it’s not exactly like Paris, but it’s about speeding up the game and doing similar things. Having that experience will help me lead the way and help wherever I’m needed.”
The point guard has also been impressed by the group as a whole, although he singled out Kevin Punter as a player he already knew could make a major impact.
“It’s difficult, because some have just come back from their national teams. I’m still trying to get to know everyone. Obviously, I already knew KP [Kevin Punter] was very good because I played against him last year and watched his videos. But everyone is trying to find their place, so I wouldn’t say anyone has stood out individually yet, but the group coming together has impressed me.”
Robinson also spoke about the role Justin Anderson played in helping him feel comfortable with the move to Barcelona, including his relationship with Punter during the summer.
“Yes, it’s very funny. He just got married and I went to his wedding in the Dominican Republic. That’s where I was able to talk to Kevin Punter, because he was there too. Justin has been like an older brother to me since I was 13 years old. In fact, he’s the reason I went to Breogan after Australia, because he played there before moving to another team. He told me he loved being here. He’s been sending me recommendations and, well, helping create that relationship between Kevin Punter and me during the summer was key to making me feel comfortable. Justin has been a pioneer in my decision to come here.”
