This afternoon, at the Bodio Lomnago office of our partner Casa Agricola, a press conference was held to introduce David Duke Jr. and Iris Ikangi.
Here are their statements:
David Duke Jr.
“I’m really happy to be here in Varese, a club that I’ve discovered is one of the most important and historic in Italian basketball. I can’t wait to start competing. I already got a taste of European basketball last year in Spain, and compared to the United States, the game here is more strategic, but at the same time requires making decisions much more quickly. Physicality also plays a key role, and I think that suits my style of play well. My goal is to put my skills and my style of play to work for the team. These first three weeks in Varese have been wonderful, and I’m truly happy to be part of this group. I think the team is very well-balanced: each of us has different strengths and skills, and I believe this very diversity of talent can be one of our key strengths. The birth of my daughter was an emotion that’s hard to describe. Right now, it’s not easy being away from her and my wife, who are still in the United States, but I’m happy because they’ll be able to join me here soon. A return to the NBA? Right now, my heart and mind are in Varese. I want to win as many games and tournaments as possible, and right now, my focus is entirely on this team. As for the NBA Europe project, I think it’s very interesting. In general, anything that can contribute to the growth and development of the basketball movement is always something to be welcomed.”
Iris Ikangi
“I’m very happy to be here in Varese. I’m an ambitious player, and I believe I embody the values and ambitions of this club very well. I have a great relationship with Andrea Calzavara: before coming here, I asked him for advice—both about the club and the city of Varese—and he spoke very highly of both. Udine was a very important stop on my journey because it allowed me to grow and gave me the opportunity to get to where I am today. I think I’m a good defender, but I know I still have room for improvement. I really like Coach Kastritis’s philosophy in this regard: his system is stimulating and certainly presents a challenge that can help me take another step forward. Becoming a dad was an incredible feeling. I’ve been a dad for just eleven days, and I’m truly happy that my daughter was born right here in Varese. They say that when a daughter is born, a special season begins—I really hope that will be true for me, too. As for the league, I think the level of play has risen compared to last year, and it’ll be crucial not to underestimate any team. The key will be to stay focused on ourselves, on our work, and on our path. Right now, it’s still hard to predict how the season will unfold: we’re only at the beginning, and we need to focus above all on improving day by day.”