Nikola Mirotic (Podgorica, Montenegro, 1991) appears smiling on the training ground at the Ciutat Esportiva Joan Gamper, where he has quoted La Vanguardia in the week of the Copa del Rey. Before sitting down to answer, he remembers his time as a columnist in this same header with a touch of melancholy: "I had a good time, I had things to say." He does not give the feeling that the Achilles tendon problems that prevented him from starting the course bother him anymore.
Is the injury past?
I'm playing well, but I'm not at the level I know I can be.
What is missing?
There are times when it's a bit difficult for me, when I lack the confidence to finish near the basket or shoot from the outside. I don't have that touch when it comes to finishing, but it doesn't worry me. Helping the team doesn't mean I have to score 20 points in each game, I can also help with rebounds, for example.
Is it costing you more than expected?
Yes and no. The first games he was like a motorcycle, even I was surprised at how well he was, it was not normal. Later, the teams noticed and adjusted their defenses, which caused me a little slump. But everything has fallen into place and I would say that I am on the right track.
He is seen training especially the shots of three...
I have entered into a dynamic of not putting in much. The percentages for the season are good, but I know they could be much better. I want to take more aim and train to refine the wrist.
It seems that Barça is reaching the Cup at a good time.
We are playing very well, we are being more solid, but now it is time to take a step forward and fight for titles.
Perhaps they have lacked a point of regularity...
We have needed to close some games. I admit that we have been somewhat irregular, especially when we have the score under control and we are unable to extend the lead, allowing our rivals to get back in.
That has cost them several defeats at the Palau...
Yes, last year at home hardly anyone beat us and this year it has cost us a little more, but I am optimistic and I like to be at this moment, with plenty of room for improvement for the future.
From the locker room they repeat that they have learned the lesson of last year and that the important thing is to be well at the right time.
I think so, at least that's the feeling it gives me. Now, finally, we have all the players available, without injuries, and in recent weeks it has been shown that we have a great squad and that we understand each other very well. Each one has their role and we are aware of the moment of the season in which we are. Now is the time to take a step forward.
Efes won the last Euroleague by entering the playoffs through the back door and this year they are out again at this point. Is it the best example of being good when it comes?
They have done something similar these two years, when they are there these guys know how to win. That has to be our objective and it is something that we have been learning in this cycle, I believe that we are capable of achieving it, of being well at the right time.
From the outside, it seems that this year Jasikevicius has changed his attitude towards the players a bit, that he is calmer and harasses them less.
It depends on the prism with which you look at it. I think Saras continues to be just as demanding, trying to get the most out of his squad and each player. He does not let anyone relax at any time, he is a very detailed technician, a perfectionist I would say.
But has it changed?
The important thing is that he is getting us to play as we have to play, that we are well, as is the case. It is clear that there are things that we can improve, but we are on the right track. Each one has to play his role and he does his. We all have the same objective, that Barça win.
What have you learned from Jasikevicius in these years?
He is a coach who knows a lot about basketball; His dead times, for example, are amazing. He shows that he has been a point guard, he knows how to read the game very well. With him, I have learned to be more patient at certain times and, above all, to put the team above myself. He also demands a lot of leadership from me and I'm sure I won't reach the level he would like.
Does he ask you to take on more leadership?
With Saras it is difficult for there to be only one leader. For him, a team must have several leaders and he, as a coach, must be one of them. Like me. I think he would like me to talk more, also on the pitch, for him to be a bit more of a bastard.
And, at the game level, what have you noticed?
Since he arrived I've been playing the low post a lot more. I think he knows my strong points very well and he tries to exploit them, and he tries to protect me from my weak points. It makes me feel comfortable.
Every time he plays in Madrid they keep insulting him...
Madrid is a very beautiful chapter of my life, even my son was born there. It's part of my life so it's a bit weird in that sense, but I've gotten used to it. I know what awaits me.
They have a lot of anger...
People are upset and broadcast it in the pavilion. There are many insults that are ugly, even some out of place, but each one is free to live his life as he wants. I have no reproaches and I do not judge. It's a classic and there's tension, but in terms of the atmosphere, for me it's just another game.
Have you ever regretted signing for Barça?
Never. My family and I have a great life in Barcelona. I am the captain of Barça, it was something I had not even dreamed of, and I have a lot of weight within the team.
Religion is very important in your life, do you also use it for basketball?
Clear! As a believer it is something very valuable. I read the Bible a lot, faith is like my engine from day to day, but, above all, when you have to overcome bumps, both on a personal and sporting level. It helps me get over them faster.
And, on the track, how do you use it?
The word of God gives me a lot of peace, a lot of tranquility in my emotional state to be able to go out and compete. It makes me calmer and isolate myself a bit from all the stress. Before games I like to pray and read the prayer. On the track, many times I thank God because he has given me confidence and peace of mind.
