Biberovic: “My dream has always been to make it to the NBA, and Dallas stepped up”

Tarik Biberovic spoke to the media for the first time as a Dallas Mavericks player.

On joining Dallas.

“I’ve known GM Mike Schmitz since I was very young because he’s one of the best people when it comes to scouting players. He knows everything about European players. So, that was kind of like a comfort zone for us. When the Mavericks acquired my rights, I talked with Masai Ujiri and Mike Schmitz. We were on the same page. My dream has always been to make it to the NBA, and the Dallas Mavericks organization stepped up and gave me that opportunity.”

On the number of European players.

“I turned pro when I was 14-15. I was basically playing with grown men. So that brings us to caring for each other, sharing the ball, understanding the basketball system, and being there for each other. So I think these are things that can help an organization, help a team get on the same page. I believe that we as Europeans can bring those things to the team.”

Biberovic then concluded:

“The players who have been here, who played in the NBA and are now actually playing in the EuroLeague, all of them were telling me that I should go to the NBA, because the plays are basically made for players like me who can shoot, space the floor and defend, as well as bring energy and enthusiasm. I really liked the way they talked to me because I kind of felt empowered and enlightened to take this step.”