Mike Batiste talks about huge Obradovic's influence and war reminding training sessions / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: Greek Basketball Federation Credit Greek Basketball Federation

Long-time Panathinaikos player and three-time EuroLeague champion Mike Batiste sat down with Mozzart Sport to recall the special experience with legendary Zeljko Obradovic.

Mike Batiste

Position:PF, CAge:44Height:204 cmWeight:102 kgBirth place:Inglewood, United States of AmericaProfileNewsStatistics

The American big man, who left a vivid trace in European basketball, admitted that it was the most beautiful part of his career, representing the Greens and winning multiple titles.

According to the 44-year-old former basketball athlete, a nine-time EuroLeague winner, Obradovic, distinguished himself by attention to the smallest details.

"Zeljko's energy and dedication to details is something that sets him apart from everyone else. Everyone emphasizes the number of trophies he won, which is, of course, important, but for me his mentality is crucial.

He always demanded a lot from players but was always ready to help anyone and take time off the floor or training. When I arrived in Athens, I was still a young man (24 years old) and I left as a grown and better person - partly due to Obradovic," spoke Batiste.

The American sportsman also remembered how he struggled to adapt to Greek culture, Obradovic's demands, and the change of environment.

"I was not coached by anyone like Zeljko. The first season was difficult for me. I had problems with injuries, and I did not manage to get used to life in Greece. Looking at this period from the distance, it is my American mentality to blame," he said.

"Obradovic also played a big role in my adjustment. I remember that after one training session we sat alone to talk about everything. He explained in detail what he expected from me on the court, moreover, he gave me advice off the floor. He told me not to be locked up in my apartment all the time, but to fully experience the beauties of Athens. Everything changed after that conversation. In the end, I stayed with Panathinaikos for a full decade, we won trophies and wrote history," Batiste added.

Points this season

45%73,8Points made:73,8Accuracy:45,3%Place in standings:15Record max:95Record min:48Best scorer:Nemanja NedovicTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

The three-time EuroLeague champ pointed out the key to Panathinaikos' success. According to him, it was the intensity of practice.

"Matches are what everyone sees, but training is something special. If there were cameras in our practice with Zeljko, then people could watch a real war. I'm not exaggerating. He created such an atmosphere, when we played 'five on five', it would be more intense than any official match.

We all had a great motive to prove ourselves against each other, and at the same time, we were brothers. If people could see the clashes between me and Nikola Pekovic in training, they would think we hate each other. When the training is over, let's hug and then do it again the next day," said PAO legend.

As claimed by Mike Batiste, he believes Zeljko Obradovic could be a coach in the NBA but it requires specific conditions.

"He could leave a big mark in the NBA, but only under certain conditions. More precisely, in certain organizations. Zeljko is a coach, who demands a lot. It would be a big mistake to come to the team with young players, who do not have competitive ambitions.

Though, I think he is satisfied in Partizan, but if he wants an NBA challenge, he needs a real team that knows what Zeljko is capable of," stressed Batiste.

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