Being one of the most proficient players in 2000 basketball generation of Europe, Yavuz Gültekin moved US to develop himself as a better player. Athletic forward out of Darüşşafaka Doğuş youth system, has already showed what he is capable of in 2016 U16 European Championship and ANGT Coin. Gültekin not only helps his team on rebounds and scoring, but also he brings much needed energy and effort on the court. He still has a long way to go in order to be a complete player, he is eager to put in hard work to achieve his dreams.
What is the reason for you to go US to pursue your career in Basketball there?
I wanted to take my talents to higher level in US. The competition is tougher in US, which will allow me to improve as a player, I came here for this competition.
How is the transition period is going in US?
Everything is going well so far. When I first came here, I wasn’t good at talking but I now I feel comfortable speaking the language. The adaptation to the language was one of the hardest obstacles at the start as the native speakers are speaking much quicker than us. Now the school started and I think I have gone through a good adaptation period. Education system has some serious differences when compared to Turkey. I am not familiar with most of the lectures but I think I can get this done with a bit of work.
What are the differences in basketball between US and Europe? What did you observe when you first come here?
In US, basketball is much tougher, players are stronger, they are more athletic than European players. Tempo of the games are crazy here. The rules are a bit different especially with the flagrant situations. Here game barely stops so you have to have a top level condition.
How was the summer for you?
Summer was amazing for me, I went to international programme at Georgetown Prep, met new people, studied on my English and I have done personal trainings to improve my game everyday. Sometimes I had like 4 trainings a day because I know if I want to be good, I have to be humble and stay hungry. I knew I had to push my limits to be able to show off my talents.
What are the skills you would like to improve there?
I would like to improve my mid-range game and consistency beyond the arc. I have to add new breakdown moves to my repertoire. I can use both of my hands but I still decide to go to my left more often so I’m working on these everyday.
What are your goals now after you went to US?
My first goal is to be in the top 50 in the nation. I want to get offers from the top colleges. My biggest goal is obivously to be an NBA player. I have two more years in High School and I am sure my dreams can become reality.
