Team 2010-11: Houston Rockets (USA-NBA) Career: Ilirija Ljubljana (Slovenia-1B, 2003-04), Geoplin Slovan (Slovenia-1A, 2004-06), Murcia (Spain-ACB, 2006-07), Olimpija Ljubljana (Slovenia-SKL, 2007-08), Phoenix Suns (USA-NBA, 2008-10), Houston Rockets (USA-NBA, 2010-11)
Goran Dragic is the stand-out player on this Slovenian team. Averaging 12.2 points per game in Turkey at the FIBA World Championship, Dragic led the Slovenian charge. He has matured in recent years, thanks to a breakout performance with the National Team at EuroBasket 2009, and through competing in the NBA and playing alongside one of the best point guards in the world in Steve Nash. Consequently he will definitely be one of the players to watch in Lithuania. Dragic has a solid all-round offensive game. He can shoot the ball from anywhere he likes, and the beauty of his shot is that he has a quick release. He can create his own space in isolation and shoot the three-point shot; or a mid-range jumper with ease or he can penetrate to the hoop and finish comfortably in traffic. He certainly isn't afraid to take contact and can adjust his body in mid-air with his superb leaping ability. If fouled, Goran is a reasonable free-throw shooter, but it is not a guaranteed point, especially in crunch-time. Coach Majlkovic will also look to Dragic also for his underrated defense. He always seems to think one-step ahead of the player he is guarding, and knows the right time to steal the ball off his opponent. The Houston Rocket has the ability to perform when it matters - he will be the first man called upon if the situation arises in Lithuania. Dragic will be looking to not only help his team this summer, but to also cement his place as one of the new stars of EuroBasket both now and in years to come. |
