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 after a summer focused on training. In an interview with EuroLeague, the Serbian guard described his summer as quiet, spent primarily in Belgrade and Montenegro, dedicated to practice. He noted that basketball itself is his primary enjoyment, stating, "I returned to my roots."

Micić allowed himself only one week off from basketball, highlighting his dedication. As a two-time EuroLeague champion and two-time Final Four MVP, he sees significant advantages in returning for a second season under coach Dimitris Itoudis. "The second year is always supposed to be easier for players, to know each other and play under the same coach," he explained, emphasizing this as the main benefit.

Discussing the team's new additions, Micić expressed optimism, believing the new players were chosen to meet the team's needs. He felt the team performed well for three-quarters of last season and didn't require major changes, though other circumstances necessitated adjustments. He specifically praised new teammates Amir Coffey, describing him as "very interesting" and noting he played against him in the NBA, Jacob Toppin for his athleticism, and Kadin Carrington for his talent.

Micić also commented on a major summer move in the EuroLeague, Shane Larkin's transfer to Fenerbahçe, a former teammate from Anadolu Efes. He admitted it would feel "very strange" to see Larkin in Fenerbahçe's uniform, calling the move "a big, big signing" and praising Larkin's intelligence and intuition.