Kristaps Porzingis Says Late-Career Move to Europe Is “Possible”
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ATLANTA — Atlanta Hawks center Kristaps Porzingis indicated he could see himself finishing his career overseas after Wednesday’s Latvia-Greece game that opened the Acropolis tournament in Athens.
“Sure, sure, why not?” the 30-year-old replied when asked about a future return to European basketball. “I haven’t really given it too much thought, but just seeing some of the clubs here in Greece, the atmosphere for the games would be unbelievable.”
Pressed on whether Greece might be a destination, Porzingis left the door open. “Possibly, possibly, but I would have to look at everything … who knows. I love the fans here and I love the rivalry they have.”
Porzingis, who started his professional career with Sevilla in 2012, finished Wednesday’s exhibition with seven points and four rebounds in a little more than 19 minutes. Greece, led by Giannis Antetokounmpo’s 25 points and 10 rebounds, won 104-86.
“Giannis had an unbelievable first half,” Porzingis said. “We could have done a better job with him, to be fair, but today was a tough day for us. We look forward to bouncing back tomorrow against Italy.”
The game marked Porzingis’ return to international competition after a mysterious illness sidelined him from February through the second round of the NBA playoffs. He said in July that rest following Boston’s postseason exit left him “feeling fantastic.”
Health permitting, the 7-foot-3 veteran is expected to take on a major role for Atlanta this season before entering free agency next summer. This is his first appearance in a major tournament since leading Latvia to fifth place at EuroBasket 2017.
“Playoffs is pretty similar because every game is life or death,” he said of FIBA play. “Even now in the preparation you can feel the intensity. These kinds of games are fun for the players and the fans, and there’s no better place to play them than at home in Latvia.”
Source: Hoops Rumors
