Jamel McLean: Our goal is to be contenders for the championship in BBL

Alba Berlin forward Jamel McLean spoke with Sportando about the SHOT against the Spurs, the season with the German powerhouse, the goals of the teama and his future

Let’s start from the SHOT against Spurs. Could you tell us your emotion?
My first reaction, was that I could not believe that the shot went in and it was enough to win the game. My second reaction, was celebrating with my team because it was a good win for us, no matter if they were in preseason or not. They are still the defending world champions. 

How important is for the confidence of the team to have won the game vs the Spurs?

I think the win against the Spurs was a bit of a tricky situation for us because we had a game friday and then on sunday. If we overreacted too much and lose the two games in our league then the win against the Spurs was pointless. Our team handled the situation, and kept the energy from the Spurs game and won our next two regular season games.

A new season in Germany but with a potential contender and Euroleague team, what are the goals of Alba this season in Bundesliga and Europe?

The only goal is just to be contenders for the championship in the BBL. The important thing is to start the season off strong and keep our place as a top 4 team so we can have home court advantage in the playoffs. EuroLeague is challenging, as we took our first loss to Moscow at home to a very tough and different style opponent that you're not used to in the BBL. We have to go out every night and compete with the best teams in Europe, and win some games and be one of the 4 teams to advance in our group.

What are your personal goals this season?

My personal goals are the same as my team goals. To win and contend for a Championship. When this happens all personal goals will happen naturally.

How you like Berlin?

Love berlin it's a great city, it's easy to feel like you're home. The people almost all speak English and it's many different restaurants to choose from. The food here in Berlin is unique they have a lot of small mom and pop places that serve great food.

How you like German basketball? From outside seems to be one of the top organizations in Europe?
The German league is a very good league, and solid league. I enjoyed playing in the league the past two years and it't only getting better with a lot of high level players. For sure it's one of the best leagues talent wise, and professional wise also. Never have to worry about your money here which is probably the most important thing. All the clubs do a good job at making you feel like you're home and well taken care of.

     
NBA is just a dream or you still hope to have your chance? 
Of course, it's still a dream, and after the Spurs game I felt a part of the dream come true, if I never play the NBA in my career I will always that NBA moment.  In the end that's all I ever ask for is the chance and if it's meant to happen it will happen. If not then I will continue my career as trying to become a dominant European player.