Sasha Vezenkov, the reigning EuroLeague MVP, has faced his fair share of challenges, both in his stint with FC Barcelona and his rookie season in the NBA with the Sacramento Kings. Despite his accolades, Vezenkov’s journey has been marked by adversity and a sense of being undervalued.
FC Barcelona Stint: Feeling Mistreated
During his time with FC Barcelona from 2015 to 2018, Vezenkov revealed feeling mistreated by certain individuals within the organization. While maintaining a positive relationship with figures like Juan Carlos Navarro, the club’s GM, Vezenkov expressed frustrations with past experiences.
“I had difficult years in Barcelona. I think they didn’t treat me well,” Vezenkov stated candidly. He emphasized that his grievances were not directed at the leadership of the organization but rather at a few individuals who failed to provide him with opportunities despite his performances.
Potential Return to Barcelona:
Despite his challenging tenure, Vezenkov remained open to the possibility of returning to Barcelona in the future. However, he acknowledged the hardships he faced during his previous stint and expressed a desire for a more positive experience should he consider a return.
“I never say no, but my time there was hard for the team and for me,” Vezenkov admitted. While he maintained respect for the club and certain individuals within it, Vezenkov highlighted the importance of being treated fairly and having the opportunity to showcase his abilities.
NBA Journey: Adapting to a Different Game
Transitioning to the NBA, Vezenkov faced another set of challenges. Despite his impressive EuroLeague campaign with Olympiacos Piraeus, where he showcased his scoring prowess and versatility, Vezenkov’s rookie season with the Sacramento Kings has been underwhelming.
Reflecting on his experience, Vezenkov highlighted the differences between European and American basketball. “In Europe, we learn the game differently — every possession matters, and here, there are a lot of possessions, so it’s a different game,” he explained.
Moving Forward:
While acknowledging the difficulties he faced, both in Barcelona and the NBA, Vezenkov remained focused on his future. He declined to name individuals responsible for his mistreatment in Barcelona but emphasized his determination to overcome challenges and succeed in his basketball journey.
🌟🗣 Last year’s Euroleague MVP has spoken.
Do you all agree with Sasha Vezenkov? pic.twitter.com/TYPt3ATjeP
— Eurohoops (@Eurohoopsnet) March 23, 2024
“I made my way,” Vezenkov affirmed. “Then it was hard because there was a purpose behind it, but everything is fine now.” Despite past hardships, Vezenkov’s resilience and commitment to his craft serve as a testament to his unwavering determination.
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