Having won the BCL title in 2019 with Virtus Bologna, you’re still one of the defending champs. How do you remember that season and that team?
It was a very tough season for everyone on that team. I definitely miss my friends in the locker room because we also had a special group of people. We bound together through good and bad times. Most people didn’t believe we even had a chance to win and we proved a lot of people wrong that year.
This one’s kinda personal. You have now been living in İzmir for more than a year. And İzmir is famous for lots of different foods. What’s your favorite one?
While I have been in Izmir for more than a year now, a lot of that time has been spent during a pandemic. I also pry myself on cleaning and drinking fresh juices during the season so I don’t eat out a lot. However, I love the fresh seafood out here and I do indulge in some fresh pişi at breakfast now and then.
What country have you enjoyed living in and playing in the most?
It’s so difficult to even answer that. I’ve been blessed to play in a few different countries and they all hold a special place in my heart for different reasons. Cultural intelligence and awareness are very important to me as we live in a global economy and I come from the melting pot of NY. Throughout my career, I’ve grown to appreciate different countries for different reasoning so unfortunately, I can’t pick one.
As a Euroballer, do you have any advice for the younger guys who are about to play overseas?
To the younger guys who are about to play overseas, it’s very important to embrace every culture and place that you become a part of. Also, invest your money for after basketball, and invest in your body and mind on and off the court. I cannot stress how important it is to be durable overseas so watch what you eat and drink. Lastly, there will be great days and there will be terrible days but always remember to never get too low and get too high. Just stay solid.
Tony the Veteran with solid advice to the young ballers