Micić Praises New Teammates, Looks Ahead to Second Hapoel Tel Aviv Season

Vasilije Micić, the most expensive signing in Israeli basketball history, is entering his second season with Hapoel Tel Aviv, having enjoyed a quiet summer focused on training in Belgrade and Montenegro. The Serbian guard, a two-time EuroLeague champion and two-time Final Four MVP, allowed himself only a week off, emphasizing that basketball itself is his primary enjoyment. Micić sees significant advantages in his second year under coach Dimitris Itoudis, anticipating smoother team chemistry and play due to familiarity.

He acknowledged the condensed training camp due to an earlier EuroLeague start but stressed the importance of personal responsibility in preparation. Discussing the team's new additions, Micić expressed optimism, stating that the new players were chosen to meet the team's needs. He highlighted several new signings, including Amir Coffey, whom he played against in the NBA, describing him as "very interesting." He also noted the athleticism of Jake Layman and the talent of Kadeem Carrington, believing each new player brings something unique.

Micić also commented on the broader EuroLeague landscape, calling Shane Larkin's move to Fenerbahçe one of the summer's biggest offseason acquisitions. He admitted it would feel "very strange" to see Larkin, his former Anadolu Efes teammate, playing for Fenerbahçe, but acknowledged Larkin's intelligence and intuition in making the move.