Craig Smith lands in Israel: 'I am very excited to be here'

Powerful force in the paint and recent NBAer Craig Smith landed today (Wednesday) in Israel for his European Rookie season at 29-years of age, and six NBA seasons with the Minnesota Timberwolves, Los Angeles Clippers, and Portland Trail Blazers under his belt.

"I'm very excited to be in Israel. It’s a great opportunity for me to showcase my abilities, and I look forward to having a great season with Hapoel Jerusalem," Smith told Israeli reporter Shai Levi at Israel's Ben Gurion airport.

The 6'7" American who played 47 games last season for the Blazers added: "I did some research about the city (Jerusalem) and its history. I have already spoken to our team captain (Uri Kokia) and Jacob (Pullen – Jerusalem's point guard), and we're ready to make some things happen."

When asked why he chose to play in Israel Smith commented, "I came here to strictly win ball games. (In my opinion) Israel isn't a step down from the NBA. Since the lockout, a lot of middle class guys were left out and forgotten. I could have waited for a deal in the league but I decided to come out here and play. I had a wonderful college and NBA career but now I'm ready to make special things happen for Jerusalem."

Smith also showed familiarity with Israeli power Maccabi Tel Aviv: "I played Maccabi in the past. I know their history and that they are good and consistently win every year, but it's time for a change. We can definitely compete at a high level against Maccabi and the revolution begins with the "Rhino" (Smith's nickname).