Stojakovic

Jan. 23, 2002 | Audio

Opening Statement: Stojakovic opening statement: The season has been very successful so far, especially since we played the first 20 or so games without Chris Webber. We have a pretty good record. Our winning streak ended after 12 wins in a row and we are just looking for another streak. It’s a great season for us.

Q: To what do you attribute the improved talent coming from Europe?

Stojakovic: I would say a lot of guys in the past opened up the doors for us. They made our transition easier and I would say some of us like myself and Dirk Nowitzki will help other guys come in the future. I would say lately, the players are more talented. Maybe it’s not that common, but I’m looking forward in the future having more players from Europe.

Q: Why are the Kings playing so well?

Stojakovic: Togetherness. That was the key even in the past. Now with the addition of Mike Bibby and knowing each better after three years and maturing as a team … we show that on the court. We know how to finish big games. But we still have a long way to go before the end of the season – to play better on he road and to improve our defense.

Q: What is your opinion on Chris Webber?

Stojakovic: Chris is an unbelievable player and he’s one of the best all-around players in the league right now and he’s our leader. He’s one of the reasons why we are doing so well.

Q: How have you improved as a player this season?

Stojakovic: It is my second year that I start. I just feel comfortable on the floor and I feel comfortable with my teammates. We know each other’s games and we know how to communicate on the court. It’s really nice to play with guys that you’ve known a long time and understand each other’s games.

Q: Do you feel the Kings can beat the Lakers in the playoffs this season?

Stojakovic: I think last year we didn’t play our best against the Lakers. I think we have the potential and talent to beat the Lakers and be the best team in the league.

Q: How big is the difference between European basketball and the NBA?

Stojakovic: NBA basketball is much harder to play because you compete each and every night against the best talent in the world. But a lot of Europeans are having successful careers in the NBA.

Q: What are the most important things European players have to learn coming into the league?

Stojakovic: Transition for European players is tough. You have to adjust yourself on the style of play and playing so many games in a short period of time. But playing professionally at an early age is helpful to better understand the game. But it takes some time because the NBA game is more physical and the guys have to prove themselves to receive some playing time.

Q: Has the style of play in Europe changed over the last several years?

Stojakovic: No. The style in Europe is pretty much the same. It’s pretty much like college basketball here. They run a set offense. If it’s possible, they will run the fast break, but it’s not exciting like NBA basketball.

Q: What will it take to beat the Lakers in the playoffs?

Stojakovic: I think the main thing is to be focused right now on the rest of the season and try to get homecourt advantage. We have to improve our game on the road and our defense. If we do that, I think offensively we have much better options right now. With the addition of Mike Bibby and the way we play, I think we have a good chance.

Q: Who is your favorite European player and why?

Stojakovic: Vlade Divac. He was one of the guys who came here at an early age and made a really great career. He’s not just a great sportsman, he’s also a great man off the court and doing a lot of good stuff.

Q: Why do you feel the Kings play so well at home?

Stojakovic: I think we get that extra energy from our fans. We feel we can make any kind of shot we throw up there. It’s should be the same way on the road. We have to ask ourselves why we are not playing the same way on the road and we are so good at home. But that’s our goal in the future: to be almost as good on the road.

Q: How important is participating in the 1 800 CALL ATT Shootout?

Stojakovic: It’s a great thing being a part of All-Star. It’s an unbelievable recognition and I had a wonderful time last year and a great experience. Unfortunately, Ray Allen beat me, but he’s a great shooter. I’m looking forward to going out there and competing against those guys and just having a lot of fun.

Q: How do you prepare for that? Stojakovic: (laughing) Shooting a lot of threes in the games.