“Zaragoza” of Spain departed for Vella to hold the first meeting. Before that, the official presentation of Giorgi Shermadini was held at the office of the club. The center of the Georgian national team and “Zaragoza” agreed on contract details before the start of EuroBasket. Willy Villar, sports director of the club, and head coach Jose Luis Abos attended the presentation of Shermadini. Giorgi will play with No.19.

- Why did you choose “Zaragoza”?

- I know a lot about Zaragoza. I know it is a good city and it has a good team. I talked to many basketball players and received positive information. I am happy to be here. I told the coach I want to thank him by my good play. I will do my best for the team.

- What will the team get from you?

- I will try to do my best in all games. My goal is to win all games.

- You know signing contract with you is considered as a great success here. “Zaragoza” expects a lot from you…

- Yes, I know. Many fans are happy to have me here. I read it on “Twitter”. I will try to justify hopes of the fans.

- Do you know anyone from your new teammates?

- I played against Norel of Holland two years ago. I know Tabu of Belgium but I have not me him at EuroBasket. I met Damjan Rudez of Croatia there. Our teams played against each other. I talked to Damjan. He told me “Zaragoza” is a good team which has a perfect coach. Rudez also likes the city.

- What are your goals in the new team?

- I know “Zaragoza” played well in the previous season and took the third place at the Spanish Championship. It will be good not to show worse result than that. We must participate in Eurocup successfully.

- How do you think, will you have much playing time in “Zaragoza” as in the Georgian national team or less time as in “Olympiacos”?

- It is a good question (laughs). Hopefully, I will play a lot. You should better ask this question to the head coach.

- By the way, there are not many players of your style in Spanish League.

- No, why? Here are many high level basketball players. My goal is to show myself in this league.

Jose Luis Abos, head coach of “Zaragoza”, made comment about the Georgian basketball player: “The club did a great job by the transfer of Shermadini. In spite of young age, he is a famous player abroad. I think he can bring us success. Giorgi is a talented player”.

Willy Villar, sports director of the Spanish team: “We try to start a new era in the team and Shermadini will have a role in it. Mass media and fans expect a lot from him. I think the Georgian basketball player has everything to justify our hopes”.

Dato Manjavidze