Press Trust of India
New Delhi, August 16: Having created history by becoming the first Indian hoopster to feature in an NBA draft, Satnam Singh Bhamara is keen to see basketball thrive in India but stated here Sunday that money and infrastructure are needed for the game to become popular.
“They (budding players) need help from all quarters. They need good coaches, good food and assistance from the government. In America, there are so many good players who get money and they succeed. If the players do not get financial backing, it will be difficult for them to achieve success,” Satnam told reporters.
The 7 feet 2 inches player also said that Indian hoopsters should not be conscious of their height in comparison to the players in the United States. “Height, built, weight all this does not matter. I have seen short players in America playing good basketball and making an impact. It’s just about, talent, hard work and focus,” he said.
Satnam said there was no reason why basketball cannot become as popular a sport as cricket in India. “If one Satnam Singh can go and play NBA there, why can’t more players do an encore? They can talk to the coaches of USA and I am sure if they see talent they will be willing to help them out. And slowly and slowly basketball will gain ground in India and give cricket a tough competition,” he said.
Asked if he has any plans to open an academy later on, Satnam said at the moment his aim is to focus on the game and make it to the top of NBA. “My prime aim is to develop my game and get a firm footing in NBA. I see myself as a successful NBA player two three years down the line,” he signed off.
