Lahti Basketball solmi sopimuksen monipuolisen Elias Hardenin kanssa jo hyvissä ajoin alkukesästä. Harden pystyy pelaamaan niin takamiehenä kuin myös laiturina. Lahti Basketball mediatiimi tavoitti Hardenin haastatteluun kesken kuuman päivän Atlantassa.
How has your summer been so far?
Summer has been good so far, I can’t complain. It’s good to be back home for a little while to see my family and bond with them. While being home during summer I was able to workout and learned some new hobbies, I learned how to kayak which was pretty cool.
Tell us a little bit about yourself?
I am from East point, Ga which is a city not to far from Atlanta. I’m 24 years old and love the game of basketball. It’s a huge passion of mine and I love learning new things about the game.
Tell me about little bit your college career?
I attended Xavier University for two years, the experience and opportunities I had there were amazing and it was a great college. My freshman year we were the Big East regular season champions and a one seed in the NCAA tournament. Outside of Xavier I attended Jacksonville State University in Alabama and finished my collegiate basketball career at Edward Waters University in Jacksonville, Florida.
What about your first year as a pro year in Cyprus?
Cyprus was a great first year for my professional career. I felt like I was able to grow and learn as a player from the professional level.
Who is your idol?
I’d have to say my father, he’s a great example of what a man is and how he carries himself through tough situations. He has a great character and has taught me so much about the game of basketball but most importantly how to be a respectful man.
How did you hear about Lahti Basketball?
I had a former teammate in college at Xavier Quentin Goodin, that played in the same league as Lahti. From that point on I was able to do research.
Why did you choose Lahti Basketball?
I felt I was offered the best opportunity to further and help me grow positively as a basketball player. The coaching staff and my GM also made me feel welcomed and we had great conversations. So I’m thankful for the opportunity and looking forward to grow and build.
What kind of player is Lahti Basketball getting by signing you?
They’re getting a hard working, determined, and dedicated player who wants to win and enjoy this experience. I want build and grow with the Lahti community. Make a bond that will stand for life.
If you have to name one player who is your game reminding of, who would that be?
I’d probably say Jimmy butler in a way. I feel like I’m able to create my own shoot, I love the mid range area, but I can also knock down the 3 and most importantly I can guard defensively. I’m willing to do what I have to do so that we can win.
Your all time starting 5?
James Harden
Michael Jordan
Kevin Durant
Dirk Nowitzki
Kareem Abdul Jabar
Do you know anything about your new hometown Lahti?
Not a lot but I do know it gets very cold and at certain points it doesn’t get much sunlight, but I’m definitely looking forward to gaining a lot more knowledge and experiencing Lahti.
Greetings to Lahti Basketball fans?
Lahti fans I can’t wait to build a connection and bond with you all. I want to grow with all and I’m going to work as hard as I can to get wins and win a championship!! LETS WORK!
Welcome to Lahti, Elias. See you soon.
