Errick McCollum: What is very important is that I started off on a very low level

Backdoor Podcast interviewed Lokomotiv Kuban star Errick McCollum.

We report some excerpts, here for the full interview.

Do you think you’ve been a good example and a role model for you little brother CJ? How is your connection off the court? When you were young, who was winning 1vs1 at home?

Oh, yeah, for sure. You know, he looks up to me, everything I did, he followed and I had to set the example for him, not only on the court but also in the classroom and in life. I was three and a half years older. So, he was a lot smaller, not as physically developed. He couldn’t beat me probably until he was like 21-22. And then I don’t think he beat me in a series until maybe like second year in NBA. We’re best friends. And we’re both professional athletes. We always keep in touch. I have NBA League Pass so I can watch all his games. He has a yearly pass for Euro Cup and VTB tournaments. Sometimes he texts me at half time to let me know what he sees during the game and gives advices.

Do you live with regret thinking about your seasons in EL or never have been played in NBA? According to trophies and individual honors, do you prefer your career as a protagonist in your squads instead of a more famous one with less prizes?

I’ve had opportunities to get into NBA and EL just a timing wasn’t right. But I enjoy my career in Europe, I enjoyed the experience with the role on the team I have. If I’m happy on the court it makes it easier to be happy in life and creates comfort for my family. What is very important is that I started off on a very low level. I was making very small money and I worked very hard with dedication to reach new heights. I kind of made my name. I’ve been very blessed just to play for 12 plus years. Hopefully, I have many more of that to continue on that high level.

McCollum is the Eurocup top scorer with 22.3 points per game. shooting 48% from twos, 41% from beyond the arc and 88% from free throw line.