Smith has arrived to "bring chaos": The Future is a good team, we have reason for optimism

The guy from the Chicago area, after attending Indiana University and Arkansas, then adventures in the NBA G League and wearing two Hapoel jerseys (Holon and Jerusalem), has put on the blue and white of the Future Volley. And, he wants an exciting season with his new teammates.

Justin Smith is one of the reinforcements of the Podgorica club this summer, he plays as a winger and is 27 years old - what can fans at "Morača" expect from him?

- I would describe myself as a very energetic and active player, especially on defense. I like to bring "chaos" to the opponent's game, to take over the guards of both taller and shorter players and to use my athleticism and strength. On offense, I like to run in transition and create for myself and my teammates, and I can also contribute from a short roll with a floater. That's about the way I would describe my game - Smith told the club's website.

It seems he didn't have to think too much when he decided to come to the capital of Montenegro.

- I had a good conversation with the coach. He contacted my representatives and through the conversation presented to me the way the team plays, the fans and the atmosphere that prevails in the hall every day. When I also saw the successes that the club has achieved in previous years, that significantly influenced my decision.

In addition to Smith, Iverson Molinar, Emir Hadžibegović, Marijal Šajok and Stefan Đorđević also arrived at Buducnost during the summer. Contracts were extended for Yogi Ferrell, Juvan Morgan, Fletcher Magee, Jerry Butsiel and Aksej Butej, as well as coach Andrej Žakelj.

- I think we're going to have a very good team. I'm excited about the start of the season and I can't wait to get going. I hope we can get a lot of wins, we'll see how it all develops, but I think we have a lot of reasons to be optimistic.

The American basketball player, who played for Hapoel Jerusalem for two seasons in the Eurocup, averaged 11,6 points and four rebounds. Now, he faces new challenges in the Buducnost team.

- I think this year's EuroCup is, at least since I've been playing, the best. When you look at all the teams, I think the competition will be very strong and we're in for an extremely interesting and uncertain season. It will be interesting to see how everything plays out, but I believe we can compete at the highest level.

He was welcomed by many famous faces in Podgorica.

- Yes. I played with Morgan in college. Ferrell also studied at Indiana University and came to train with us a few times while I was there. I played against Molinar in college, then in Israel, and last season when he was in Cluj. So I already know some of the new teammates well and I believe we will all fit in well on the court - concluded Smith.