Torey Thomas www.donarbasketbal.nl

Torey Thomas interview: "become the best guard in the Netherlands"

by Fred Roggen - Jul 22, 2008

Eurobasket had the chance to talk with American point guard Torey Thomas (180-G-85, agency: Interperformances, college: Holy Cross). He was one of the top guards in the Swedish Basketligan last season and played for Akropol BBK. He averaged 25.6ppg and 6.6apg in his first season in Europe. Thomas has now moved to the Netherlands to play for the Hanzevast Capitals. 1. How was your first pro experience in Europe this season? My first pro experience was definitely a journey.

1. How was your first pro experience in Europe this season?
My first pro experience was definitely a journey. I traveled from Hungary for two days, Turkey for about two months, Landed in Sweden for four months and cap it off in France for two months. This European season I learned a tremendous patience and perseverance.

2. You quickly emerged as one of the top-scorers in the Swedish Basketligan and achieved awards like Eurobasket.com 'player of the year', did you expect that?
Coming into the Sweden I had one thing on my mind and that was to help Akropol win some games. I knew that I had to showcase my game to the best of my ability in order to continue to play in Europe. I expected my play to stand out but It was truly an honor to be selected Eurobasket Player of the Year, I would like to thank Frankie Afzelius for sending my tape to Akropol. Akropol allowed me to play my style of game and I reaped the rewards.

3. Compare NCAA college basketball with pro basketball in Europe.
NCAA Basketball and Pro Basketball in Europe have similarities and differences. They are similar because of the crowd atmosphere, its like a student-body is out in Europe cheering for you, knowing all about who plays for their team. The difference in Europe is playing once a week, that is a big difference because in the NCAA you play a minimum of twice a week. Ultimately, in Europe you have to adjust your game to the rules and the fast paced nature of the game.

4. What are your strengths and weaknesses on and off the court?
My Strengths on the court include my leadership, defense,my ball handling ability, My consistent and developing three-point shot, and my ability to break down the defense off the dribble. My developments include being a threat on the offensive in at all times. Off the court I am really involved in my hometown, White Plains, New York. I am a co-founder of the New York Blaze Athletic and Enrichment Club, it is a non-profit organization for youths 8-18.

5. Now you have signed with Hanzevast Capitals, do you know something about the Capitals and basketball in the Netherlands?
I have heard great things about Hanzevast Capitals. I know that they are in Groningen which is in the north of Holland. I Know that they have the BEST fans in the Netherlands and I am very excited to be apart of the tradition. I have heard that Basketball in the Netherlands is very competitive and there are a few teams that compete in Uleb cup games.

6. What are your goals in the Netherlands?
My goals in the Netherlands are very simple. I want to win games. I want to make the playoffs, take it game by game and series by series. I want to be a Dutch Champion. My personal goal is to become the best guard in the Netherlands.

Eurobasket would like to thank Torey Thomas for taking the time to do this interview.