Rolands Smits: “I wanted to have a more important role” 0

Latvian big man Rolands Smits is eagerly looking forward to wearing the green-and-white jersey on the court. In an interview with Zalgiris Insider, the Latvian national team member shared his impressions of joining Zalgiris.

“Yes, it’s very strange,” said Smits when asked about the feeling of moving so close to his native Latvia. – “I feel very good because it will only be a three-hour drive from my home. My family will now be able to come and visit me more often. It was also the best decision for my family, as Lithuania and Latvia are very similar countries.”

Smits has been with FC Barcelona since 2017, but spent his first season with Fuenlabrada Montakit, where he made his debut in the European Cup and won the Rising Star award.

A successful season in Fuenlabrada opened the door to FC Barcelona. The Latvian spent four seasons in the legendary Catalan club, making his Euroleague debut and playing with some of Europe’s elite basketball players.

In the 2021-2022 EuroLeague season, under the guidance of Sarunas Jasikevicius, Smits spent 15 minutes on the floor, scoring 4.4 points, putting up 3.1 rebounds and 4.7 efficiency. In the Spanish ACB, the Latvian had similar statistics: 15 minutes, 5.2 points, 2.9 rebounds and 4.9 efficiency.

“I wanted to be a more important player on the team, to have a more important role. I was very happy in Barcelona, but it’s hard to play with so many good players in one team. I was playing with probably the best players in Europe, so I felt that I wanted a change. I wanted to feel more part of the team and improve my game. I think this will be a great place to continue to improve.”

Before joining Zalgiris’ pre-season preparations, which start in the second half of August. Smits gave a message to all the team’s fans.

“I am very happy to be here and I will do my best for the team to win every possible game and win titles,” said the Latvian.

The full interview with Smits is now available for Zalgiris Insider MVP Plan subscribers. During the interview, the big man talked about his strengths on the court, the position where he sees himself the best, his hobby of fishing and shared some of his summer plans.