Nikola Mirotic emotional after Barca fans' reception: 'My commitment to them is total' / News - Basketnews.com

Nikola Mirotic commented on Barcelona fans' warm reception when he took the Palau Blaugrana court for Game 1 vs. Real Madrid.

Credit: Joan Valls/Urbanandsport /NurPhoto via Getty Images Credit Joan Valls/Urbanandsport /NurPhoto via Getty Images

AfterNikola Mirotic's interview with El Mundo Deportivo Thursday and following statements by Juan Carlos Navarro about FC Barcelona having already informed the player of their imminent contract termination, there were doubts on how the player would be received by home fans.

Player of the Game EFF 23 Nicolas Laprovittola Points 19 Accuracy 4-13 Rebounds 2 Assists 6

A storm was announced in the game for the player, and even more so after seeing how some Barcelona supporters club charged against him on social networks, calling him ungrateful, when in fact it's the club that's letting him go.

Barca hosted Real Madrid in Game 1 of the Spanish finals, racking up a 97-88 victory that gave them a push to reclaim the title. The Palau Blaugrana left no doubts about their support for Mirotic, as the Montenegrin was massively applauded at his presentation on the court by some totally dedicated fans.

Mirotic finished with 14 points and 7 rebounds for a PIR of 21, the second-highest among Barca players after Nicolas Laprovittola. He overcame the bad moments of the game to score a triple with 2:38 remaining which catapulted his team to victory.

He did not score his first basket until minute 16. And when Madrid pressed he scored four free throws to close the victory. The Palau thanked him by giving him an ovation when Jasikevicius sat him down with 19 seconds to go. The club did almost the same by posting a tweet with his photo during the game.

Once the clash was over, Mirotic went to a sector of the side stands to thank him for that attitude with a heart gesture and gave his shirt to the fans sitting near a banner and wearing his shirt.

"We never have any doubts about the Palau," coach Sarunas Jasikevicius said at the end. “If possible we always ask for more because we need it and he has been supporting Niko even more because we know how difficult the situation is. The important thing is how we are responding on the court and Niko too, ”he added.

Mirotic could not help but be moved in the locker room when speaking to the press. He was reminded of the ovation received before and during this first playoff game against Madrid.

"I am very grateful to the people. For me, they have been very important and they continue to be. The Palau has always accompanied me, they have always been there for me and for the team", said the 33-year-old forward.

"Right now it's more appreciated. They know that my commitment to them and the club is total. I'm going to be professional and do my best," added Mirotic, reaffirming his commitment to the club and the fans to try to win this season's league title.

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