European Prospects

Mateusz Ponitka was one of the main players for the Polish U17 National Team that won the Silver Medal at the World Championship 2010 in Hamburg. The scoring wing has been elected to participate at the Nike Hoop Summit in Portland and we got in touch with him to go through a small Q&A.

What was your first impression when coming to Portland and the USA in particular? I think it was your first time in the United States.

Yes it is my first time in US and I am very happy that I can be here. Amazing – that’s what I can only say.

Being there with another Polish guy in Przemek, does this help you to get used to the new environment?

I think it is a little bit helpful but on the other side, players here are easy going and it’s not a problem to talk and laugh with them.

Did you know already some of players of your World Select Team from before?

Yes I knew Kevin Pangos, Dario Saric and a little bit Davis Bertans.

Right now, do you care more about winning the game on Saturday, improving yourself or presenting yourself well in front of all the Scouts in attendance?

Right now we want to win the game. Of course everyone wants also to present themselves in a good way but I think the main point is to win the game.

What do you know about the US team? Do you think you have a chance to beat them?

Of course we have a chance and this chance is big. We have great players from all over the world. Yes I know some players from US but I think that we can beat them.

Who do you share a room with in Portland? What type of person is he?

I share my room with Bismack Biyombo who is very good person and huge player. I hope he will be in the NBA and I keep my fingers crossed for him.

You were told to be eventually interested in playing College Basketball in the future. Does this American experience might influence your decision on your future?

I think the United States are a very good country for basketball players but I don’t know yet if I come here to play in college.

Do you think playing in the Rose Garden on Saturday is a bigger experience than the Medal you won with the Polish National Team at the U17 World Championship?

It will be an amazing experience and I can’t wait for it. I think it’s similar to Silver World Championship medal so let’s do it.