Crédit photo: Leicester Riders
Coach Paternostro and his team have been busy building a team capable of pushing for the BBL title once more, and the man who had a stellar career for the Tigers, averaging double figures in points and over 5 rebounds per game, could well be the final piece of that jigsaw.
Hassan spoke with EuroBasket’s Jeffrey King ahead of his arrival in England…
“I don’t know too much about the league, but I do know it’s competitive and it’s a league I’m looking forward to playing in as a rookie professional,” said Hassan, who led his side to the Conference Championship in 2012.
“Coach Paternostro gave me a call and told me he really liked my game and that they wanted me to be a part of their team. He let me know about the team’s success and what kind of team I would play for and that had a big impact on signing with them.
“I feel like the team has great chemistry and plays the style of basketball I like to play. I plan on meshing with my teammates and continuing the team’s success. I feel my team is capable of winning everything again this year, as long as we work hard and play together. I know the expectations are raised from last season, but that just means more fan support and we’ll have to give it our all every night.”
Professional basketball is something Rashad has wanted since a young age, and his progress with Tigers has given him a fantastic platform to build from with the Riders.
“Its something I’ve wanted ever since the age of 6. I’ve always had a strong passion for basketball and my Mom, Rodiste Dearing, has always been there for me, driving me on and has had a huge influence on my career. Competing at a high level is something I’ve always wanted to do and I’m thankful for the opportunity the Riders have given me.
“I just want to add on to the success they had last year. I’ll do whatever it takes to win and I plan on being a reliable team-mate.”
Source: http://www.leicesterriders.co.uk/news/rashad-hassan-aiming-high/