New Barça basketball signings aiming for the top
The Barça basketball team have started the 2023/24 season with a trophy - the Lliga Catalana - ensuring the best possible start to what is shaping up to be an exciting season. The two victories to seal the trophy win saw the debuts of the four new signings, who were officially presented today with their new jerseys.
Jabari Parker, Willy Hernangómez, Joel Parra and Darío Brizuela were all present at the Auditori 1899 and gave their thoughts on their first few days as blaugranes. Proceedings began with president Joan Laporta welcoming them, stating that "we are very excited. I want to thank you for your commitment to come to Barça. We are going through changes, and along with the new coach (Roger Grimau), you are the proof of this change."
Welcome by presidents Laporta and Cubells
Laporta also highlighted that "we have made a huge effort to produce a competitive basketball team. We want competitive and sustainable professional teams. Reducing the basketball deficit by half and increasing income is really helping us, and I am very proud of that."
President of the Barça basketball division, Josep Cubells, also stated something similar, and wanted to highlight the desire of the four players to become Barça players. From a second round NBA draft pick like Jabari Parker to Willy Hernangómez, who he sees as "a flagship player. You will be a centre that marks an epoch in Barça", he assured.
He also defined Joel Parra as a "strategic player for the Club" and he mentioned that Darío Brizuela said that "I would walk from Malaga because I am a Barça fan", bringing Cubells' speech to a close before the players gave their thoughts.
Jabari Parker looking to get back on track
The former Atlanta Hawks and Milwaukee Bucks player explained that he wants "to contribute to win. I know people respect me and want to watch me, and I want to make things easy for my teammates using my intensity and know-how".
This is his first experience away from the NBA, and after several injuries, Parker recalled that "I was in no doubt when I spoke with Barça and I understood the history and everything about this Club. I have no more time to wait, I've waited enough and I'm here to do big things".
Willy Hernangómez delighted with Barça and Barcelona
The Spanish centre has also left the US league with a clear aim in mind. "I was looking for a place to be happy. They have shown love and that I could be part of this team since day 1. I had no doubts. I knew I was coming to a very big Club and it would be very good, but I feel even better, really happy and very much at home. I notice how thrilled people are when I am going shopping or putting in petrol, and that stokes you to do a great season".
Regarding facing Real Madrid this weekend, his former team and the blaugranes' rival in the Spanish Super Cup semifinals, he was very clear. "I see Real Madrid as a rival and I will give my all for the Club in every game".
Joel Parra ready for the next step
Barça basketball's first new signing, the former Penya player will bring "a lot of energy and I hope to forge a great connection with the fans. It's still early days, but I am very happy. It seems like we have been playing together for five years, and I am very happy to be here. I wanted to come and take the next step. You always want to be with the best and play against the best".
On the decision to leave Joventut from Badalona, Parra stated that "I was with the Penya for 18 years and they helped me grow as a player and a person. I will always be grateful, but I am happy to be where I wanted to be.
Dario Brizuela wanted to test himself against the best
The 'Mamba Vasca' faces a significant step to test his talents in the EuroLeague, and claimed that "I haven't been able to play in it yet and I have always wanted it. I can't wait to see the actual level and see whether I am ready".
Regarding his arrival at Can Barça, he stated that "I hope to continue winning trophies here. It really makes it easier when you come to a new club and you have known people for years. However, the other teammates also make it very easy for us. We want to win everything and we have the squad to do it".
A real statement of intent from an ambitious team that wants to make all Barça fans dream with every major honour possible.