Bologna, July 28 –
Without false modesty Alen Smailagic perhaps best represents the new philosophy of the current HCL world. The right age, 24 years old, a marked verticality, 208 centimeters, great agility, all to be that 4-5 wanted by coach Ivanovic able to spread between area and perimeter. Prototype seasoned with already robust Euroleague experience in four seasons, plus another couple spent in the NBA with the Warriors. Reverse globetrotter who, to the classic Europe-United States growth path, preferred the opposite one, starting immediately there and then crossing the Atlantic to Europe, passing first from Partizan and then from Kaunas.
Pair play with Momo Diouf will place this big guy from Belgrade as an element capable of varying the tactical set-up as needed. Having to choose, he prefers pick and pop to pick and roll, being able to rely on an excellent hand from long distance and a read that can attack the first step when paired with a less athletic defender. Defensively, on the other hand, he will have to get a handle on the need to shadow in the area, being able to rely at the moment on the effective weapon of the stoppage and good mobility laterally as well. A silent leader in all his recent high-level experiences even in the Euroleague, Smailagic certainly represents that tactical unicum that appears difficult to give up.
