Vit Krejci is the next best thing from Czech Republic. Thanks to his tremendous feel for the game, ball handling skills and ability to create shots he quickly stood out among competition in his country. Multiple offers appeared but decision to leave and take talents abroad at the age of 14 is never easy. Young talented guard who turned 17 on May, is now matured and independent way more than peers. However he claims that beginnings were a bit difficult:
“It was really hard but my first year my mother came with me so she helped me a lot. I really appreciate that because for her that was hard too. But people and coaches were amazing and helped us with everything.”
Krejci is also rich in on court experience to bigger degree than usual teenager as he made his ACB debut during 2016/2017 season. That honorable moment happened on 6103 day after he was born which allowed him to surpass Radovan Kouril as the youngest Czech player who managed to do that. The opportunity came during the absence of injured Tomas Bellas & Martynas Gecevicius. It was only 14 second episode but such things mean the world to youngsters:
“I was hoping but not expecting that. It was one of the best moments in my life when coach looked at me and called my name.” – says Krejci who is 198 cm now but according to doctors may grow even up to 203 cm.
The country, birth place, height, position and quick debut in Spain suggest only one comparison – Tomas Satoransky. Is Washington Wizards guard someone that Vit Krejci looks up to?
“Yeah, of course. He is one of the best guards that ever played in ACB. He gave me a lot of advices. I really appreciate that.”
Speaking of Czech Republic connections in Spain, talented prospect can also always count on one more person – 1997 born swingman Simon Pursl who in fact is his teammate in Zaragoza and Olivar – Tecnyconta’s farmer team which participates in EBA Liga.
“From the beginning he was helping me with languages, to get to know the city better and whatever I needed.” – reminisces Vit who now speaks three languages fluently.
Despite being just 16 years and 8 months old on the day of debut, Vit is not the youngest player who ever suit up for Zaragoza in ACB. There is one other greatly talented guard there – Carlos Alocen. He shares backcourt with Krejci in youth teams and made it before turning 16. How does their cooperation look like?
“It’s really good to play with Carlos because we can switch roles. When he is tired I take the ball and defend Point Guard. It also works the other way round. I like to play like that.” – Czech star claimed for Eurospects. Vit also confessed that He feels slightly better as a Shooting Guard but doesn’t mind at all playing 1 position.
Krejci will most likely go back to Zaragoza for the 4th season but it’s not 100% clear. Currently he is practising with Czech U18 team that participates in FIBA U18 European Championships of Division B in Tallinn which is not satisfying level for Prague native:
“I just hope we can win it and next year I play in A division”
