Jared Harper: "I'm coming in better. I believe we will have a great season"

Hapoel Jerusalem is preparing for the start of training for the new season, and this evening (Thursday) the team's star Jared Harper landed in Israel.

"I feel good, I believe this season will be different from last season. We have a new coach, I believe we will have a new system, with many new players, so it will take us some time to connect and be together so we can make the right adjustments. We will try to learn as quickly as possible and do everything to meet our goals this season."

Harper addressed the professional changes in his team: "I think a lot of changes were made. Several new players were added, several new pieces to the puzzle. Players arrived with experience and with all kinds of skills, so I assume we will be able to play in several systems and win in all kinds of ways. It will require effort from each and every one of us, from the first day, to build the chemistry between us all."

"Obviously there was interest in me from other teams, that's how it works," added the outstanding guard. "But I want to stay here and win with Hapoel Jerusalem, so I believe we are going to have a great season. I am very ready for the upcoming season. Last season I had to deal with an ankle injury, so this summer I worked differently than last summer after the injury, so I feel that personally I am coming into this season in better condition. I am very excited for the new season, both for the games in the European framework and for the league here in Israel."

Harper was asked if he had already spoken with Sasa Obradovic and replied: "I had a few conversations with the new coach, a few background and preparation talks. I expect myself to continue as a leader, with my experience, and to help the new guys who are a little less familiar with European basketball. My experience in Israel, my experience with the team - all these should help me be one of the team's leading players."