Carlik Jones is coming off a busy summer where he represented the South Sudan national team in the Olympics and he is set to make his EuroLeague debut with Partizan in the upcoming season. The South Sudanese star guard arrived in Belgrade after being absent from Partizan’s roster presentation ceremony on Monday due to a flight delay.
Jones admitted that he had offers from NBA teams but believed that the Serbian club was the ideal place for him.
“There were a few offers from the NBA, but not as many as reported. Many people were worried and nervous, but you shouldn’t believe everything that is written. It’s true that I received some offers, but I knew from the beginning that Partizan was the ideal club for me. It seemed like the best decision” Carlik Jones said in an interview with Mozzart Sport (h/t Eurohoops.net).
Carlik Jones is coming off a great Olympic campaign where he averaged 18.0 points, 5.0 rebounds, and 7.7 assists per game helping South Sudan win its first game ever in its short Olympic history. Jones explained that he spoke thoroughly about his role with Partizan’s coaching staff.
“We had two conversations, he ( Zeljko Obradovic) told me to be who I am, a true playmaker and leader. To lead the team on both sides of the floor, and to make my teammates better,” Carlik Jones revealed.
Nothing less, nothing more. He assured me that he had no intention of changing anything in my game. Just to be myself.”
Partizan is preparing for the new EuroLeague season after undergoing a true roster overhaul. They finished 11th in the standings amid an injury-filled season.
