A few days before the European Championship, the Israeli national team held its traditional media day today (Sunday) in preparation for the Eurobasket, which returns after five years.
In a special interview, the team's star Danny Abdia describes his feelings towards the championship, tells about the excitement and pressure, and the big dreams for the future.
How did the preparation period for the European Championship go for you?
"Unfortunately, I got sick, so I didn't join the entire preparation period for the national team, but so far I've really enjoyed being with the national team and wearing the national uniform."
How do you feel you improved in the preparation games?
"The preparatory games helped me consolidate and strengthen the chemistry between us.
It was an important period that helped us connect as a team and I hope we will have a successful championship.'
Does the transition from supporting player in the NBA to the star of the team affect you?
"Throughout my career I do the role that the coach asks of me in the best way possible.
I accept my role in every situation and do not insist.
I am among the leading players in the team and I am sure that everyone is important here.'
What does wearing the national uniform mean to you?
"A great honor for me always.
I started in the cadets and today I am here with the senior team in the European Championship.
It's an amazing track that I didn't see happening.
Does meeting the Serbian national team have a different meaning for you?
"It's special for me of course.
My current balance against Serbia is 1:1 and I want to change that.'
Danny Avdia and Guy Panini.
"The preparatory games helped me consolidate and strengthen the chemistry between us, it was an important period", Photo: Alan Shiver
What do you think about the treatment that the team receives and the views that it receives?
"We will always be treated as underdogs, there is nothing we can do.
We are not the most athletic or the strongest team and it will always be that way, but we bring fight and heart that other teams do not bring.
The fact that we are not counted only makes us stronger.'
What does that mean?
"I know they don't see us as the strongest team and that's all the fun, that way we can come and surprise everyone, the reserve team taught me and proved to me that there is always hope.
We know what we are worth.'
As the star of the team you get special attention. how do you get it
"For me it's fun.
This is an opportunity for people to see me play in Israel and I try to give everyone equal treatment.
I remember how as a child I was excited to meet people I admired, and now I try to be an example and a role model for children.
It's very exciting for me.'
Many NBA players will reach the championship, how will it affect the level?
"There will be a very strong championship with a large number of NBA players.
I will have to deal with a high level and meet quality players.'
Danny Avdia against Romania.
"We know what we are worth", photo: Oded Karni
You are returning to the team after two years in the NBA. do you feel pressure
"For me there is no pressure.
I don't like to act under pressure, on the contrary.
I enjoy the responsibility I have and will do everything for the team's success.
I will make sure that all my team members are satisfied and feel part of it.'
Do you dream of a medal in the championship?
"I wish.
We didn't believe in the reserve team either at first.
The reserve proved to me that there is always a chance.
The other teams shine but we are not suckers.
I wish we would come back with a medal.'
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