Gregory Echenique’s summer away from Creighton continues as the Bluejays center represents his native Venezuela on the country’s national basketball team. Echenique recently scored 14 points and grabbed 16 rebounds in a win against Cuba.
WBR caught up with Echenique (again; here too) to talk about his team’s participation in the Super 4 Tournament, playing against NBA stars like Manu Ginobili, and what he’s improved on while representing his home nation this summer.
White & Blue Review: How has the level of competition differed in Argentina, compared to who you played as warm-ups?
Gregory Echenique: Well, these games are still a warm up for the main tournament. I would say it was better, though, because we played Argentina twice. They are obviously one of the best teams in the world.
WBR: What is the atmosphere like for an event such as the Super 4 Tournament?
GE: The atmosphere was great. People go and watch the games because for some of them it will be one of the few chances they will get to see international basketball. If you play the home team, Argentina, like we did, it is mind blowing. We haven’t played in arenas bigger than the Qwest Center yet, but the way the gyms are built here it seems like the people are pretty much on top of you. Also they have a lot of songs and chants that are similar to what they do in soccer games.
WBR: What parts of your game have translated well to the international style?
GE: I think the physical aspect is the best part of the international game. I am able to make contact with other players and fight to get the ball in ways that would most likely be a foul in the Valley.
WBR: What was it like going up against a bunch of current/past NBA guys in the Argentina game?
GE: It was a good opportunity. I’m glad I played well. You don’t get to play a team that has five NBA guys every day. And to do well is even better. It helps to build some confidence.
WBR: What can your team learn from a game like that?
GE: It was a very close game most of the time; at half it was a one-point game. We know that if we play hard and throw the first punch we can surprise people.
WBR: What has been the biggest challenge in preparing for the Olympic qualifier?
GE: I would say the routine. We travel a lot and practice a lot and there are almost no days off. You really have to rest and take care of your body.
WBR: How has playing Brazil and Argentina in exhibition games helped prepare you and your teammates for when you meet again in the qualifier?
GE: It helps because they are two of the stronger teams in that tournament and Brazil is our first game onec we get there. It gives us an idea of what we need to do and correct when we meet again.
WBR: What have you missed most back in the states since you have been with your country’s national team?
GE: The people. I have good friends and people that follow me and support me that I have not been able to see most of the summer because I’m away.
WBR: How have you improved as a player during this experience?
GE: So far I think it is all about confidence, getting to know my game more and what I do best. The fact that you are playing against the best of other countries helps gain experience.
WBR: Have you been in contact with the guys about their Bahamas trip?
GE: I followed every game that they had, and talked to the coaches often while they were there. I’m excited to be back in Omaha because they are all telling me how much this group is working and how much they want to win.