Novica Velickovic ahead of El Clasico: 'I give my vote to Real; Madrid is Madrid' / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: Fotodiena/R.Dačkus Credit Fotodiena/R.Dačkus

Although 10 years have passed since he wore the Real Madrid jersey, the legendary Serbian player Novica Velickovic is still a big fan of Los Blancos.

3-pointers this season

36%9,7Points made:9,7Accuracy:35,8%Place in standings:3Record max:18Record min:1Most made 3FGs:Rudy FernandezTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

After becoming EuroLeague Rising Star, Velickovic left Partizan Belgrade for Madrid, where he played from 2009 to 2012.

Today, the 35-year-old is retired from professional basketball, and Velickovic expressed his expectations for the EuroLeague Final Four in his homeland.

"It's great for us that F4 is in Belgrade, the city full of basketball fans and tourists. It's a great thing for Serbia," began Velickovic.

Then he referred to the first semifinal, which starts at 18:00 CEST, where Olympiacos Piraeus will meet the reigning EuroLeague champions Anadolu Efes Istanbul.

"Efes have shown how strong they are in the last few years. They started slowly this season, but they have great talent, especially when it comes to attacking. I'm not sure anyone can stop Larkin and Micic. They are a top-class duo in the EuroLeague.

On the other hand, Olympiacos have shown that they play smart team basketball, so anything is possible in one game. However, I give preference to Anadolu Efes, since they know how to win titles," said Velickovic, who then commented on awaiting El Clasico (21:00 CEST).

"If you look at the whole season, Barcelona may be the favorite. I believe the fans think so too. However, Real Madrid is Real Madrid. They have been dominant for decades, I give my vote to Real."

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