Samir Sliptahovic's story, debut as 14 years old and the most difficult opponent

The Albanian basketball player, who started traveling in Kosovo basketball from Pristina. With his remote, assisting and fighting in the parks, the hearts of Kosovo basketball fans won. Samir also played for Mabetex, Union and Pec, winning many trophies.

In an interview for the FBK official page, he speaks since the 14-year debut, the trip to Kosovo basketball, his idol, the most difficult opponent, the most special matches and the message to young people.

How did you decide to play basketball?

When I started playing basketball, you didn't have a lot of choice. Either the wrong way or the playing sports. I chose the good way and my family to play sports. Basketball was the first and last sport I ever loved. The biggest innicator was Father Arifi. My father was a sport himself and I remember every tip at that difficult time. Of course, it hasn't been easy for me at the time, because everyone knows how much Albanians in Montenegro respect it. Zero equals. But luck and work have made me stand out above all other children. In 14 years, I have debuted for the first team of Mornar Bar. It's been my dream to be on the first team that came true at that time.

Who was your idol in childhood?

Each of us at that time as well as now, there is no idol but the only Michael Jordan.

Every trophy won has its own specials. It's very hard to determine which cup you're talking about. But one thing I know for sure, the one winning it is the most beautiful feeling in life. We basketball players only have one dream. Let's be state champions where we play.

What fight can you never forget?

The game I played at Mornar Bar. I was only 17 years old and we played Crvena Ziesda in Tivar. I got 38 points. There were also leaders and Pristina players who witnessed that match.

It has also been the match against Ephesus Pilsen in Turkey and Pristina. Also the Pristina match '%Mabetex. But there have been other meetings, such as Peja Pristina in the finals of Play-off and that Peja Teodo Tivat.

Who was the hardest opponent you ever faced?

I haven't had such a qualitative opponent. Because I have had so much self - confidence and considered myself to be better committed. I will quote Kosovo and European basketball legend Ferid Zekoli, who once told me: My associates have the biggest problem. I ask him why, and he answers me because I am being prevented from destroying opponents. The truth is, it happened to me many times. I can only be measured by Artan Mehmet, but I don't tell why. I hope I meet him one day and say hello.

How much do you miss basketball and the atmosphere since you played?

I miss basketball in particular. I also miss fans, exercises, and game preparations. I especially miss every single word of basketball.

What is the message for new players who want to handle basketball?

My message to young people is the same as I tell my son. It's easy to be a bad person, but it's a problem to be a good person. First it must be human, to get away from bad ways, with being close to his family. Sports in particular should be in the minds of a teenager. I have spent 12 wonderful years in Kosovo that I will never forget. God saved all Albanians.