There were few surprising names in Polish preliminary roster for 2019 World Cup Qualifiers. The biggest yet positive shock among call-ups for national team duty was the name of 2000 born Aleksander Balcerowski. Olek may currently be the biggest hope for better basketball future of his country but he hasn’t really played any official game yet even on youth level in white and red jersey.
“I wasn’t really expecting that to happen. Maybe next but not this season. I was really excited and happy after I saw my name on the list.”
7’1 prospect was one of the biggest names missing from the past year U16 European Championship that were played in his homeland due to foot stress fracture. However representing the country is nothing new to his family as his father is one of the best European players in wheelchair basketball (made All-Tournament selection at Euro Champs this summer).
What’s the mindset before heading for practises after which Poland will face Hungary in the qualifications opener?
“I just want to do my best and showcase myself. That’s the most important thing for me.”
Two months ago Olek had a pleasure to take part in FIBA NBA Basketball without Borders in Israel which gathered the most talented 17 yo talents from all over the continent. How was that experience for him?
“It tought me a lot. I had a chance to work with world’s best coaches and they helped me to raise my confidence level.”
After good showing Balcerowski may have a serious shot to make a roster for global version of BWB camp during the winter in USA and NBA All-Star weekend. It would be another huge achievement as he already participated in Jordan Brand Classic Showcase in New York. Olek was praised by the coaches as he is exactly what the executives on the highest level look for – big ball size with small ball skills. Where does his unique ability to handle and shoot the ball at this size come from?
“It has been like that since the very beggining. I was always one of the tallest guys on the team but loved to play backcourt and make a drills with guards.”
Obviously Olek is not a finished product yet and is somewhat undermature for his age group which is often the case with big players. Is improving physical profile the key to reach his full potential?
“Yeah definitely. I need to work a lot on my motor coordination, strength and quickness.”
Polish prodigy still has long ways to go but seems like there is enough time to improve the imperfection and make it really big. It’s normal that he draws interest from the best teams but Gran Canaria where he currently resides also gives him a chance to compete in EBA Liga and junior Euroleague. Moreover there is an example to follow in Anzejs Pasecniks who has been making steady progress on Canary Island. He is excellent shooter standing at 7’2 and was drafted in the late first round of 2017 Draft.
In few years we can hear Balcerowski name at that moment.
