By Javier Molero/ jmolero@eurohoops.net
Real Madrid has completely revamped its project. With Pedro Martínez at the helm, the team has been active in the summer transfer market, looking to put a trophyless season behind them.
They have brought in highly talented players across various positions—including internationals with experience in Europe and the G League—as well as a specific player the new coach knows well: Jaime Pradilla. The Spaniard spoke to Eurohoops during the official EuroLeague Media Day about the season ahead and his eagerness to learn while playing for one of the most demanding teams on the planet.
“I’m excited and really looking forward to these first few weeks. I’m impressed by the whole setup here and can’t wait to start competing,” he told Eurohoops.
When asked about the style of play Real Madrid will adopt under Pedro Martínez—who has arrived to implement his attractive and effective brand of basketball—Pradilla had no doubts.
“Everyone knows Pedro by now. He likes a dynamic, upbeat style of play. I think that’s what we’re going to see. We’re going to see a style of play that involves a lot of running, passing the ball, and frequent transitions—an entertaining game for us and for the fans,” stated Real Madrid’s new signing.
All this follows a sensational individual campaign. Winning the ACB title, reaching the EuroLeague Final Four… these are the kinds of months that toughen you up and propel you to the elite level. It was a season that has prepared him for the next challenge.
“Year by year and day by day, I try to keep growing and improving. It has helped me—both on the court and personally—to mature and gain experience for key moments. Gaining experience at a Final Four—my first time there—or playing in my second ACB final. Arriving with a bit more experience under my belt,” he said during the club’s Media Day.
With so many new signings, frontcourt competition is fierce. The players offer diverse profiles—all of them perfect for the new coach—but Jaime Pradilla brings something different to the mix.
“My dynamism, my energy, my positivity, and my eagerness to get started and help in any way I can. If I’m asked to help with anything else, I’ll be available to assist the team with whatever is needed,” assessed Jaime Pradilla.
The Spanish international was key to Valencia Basket’s recent success. In this new setting, it is worth knowing whether Pedro Martínez is asking for different things from him for this new Real Madrid project.
“No, ultimately it’s what we discussed: he plays a dynamic style with lots of transitions, and that’s what we came here for. It’s more or less the approach we’re taking,” he said regarding his familiar coach.
“I want to try to help my teammates. I know him from before, so there are areas where I can offer my perspective to the guys and try to help them adapt to this style of play as quickly as possible,” continued Real Madrid’s new power forward.
After a year without trophies, the changes have been significant—from management to the players, and including the coaching staff. A new group has been formed—one yet to be tested in action—that understands the high standards at Real Madrid and is ready to compete for every title.
“I see a group that is eager and excited to start competing from day one, and really hungry to fight for everything,” he stated clearly.
Days before the season kicks off with the European Super Cup, Pradilla outlined his personal and professional goals for Eurohoops, looking ahead to where he hopes to be if this interview takes place again next year.
“On a personal level, to keep taking steps forward, to keep growing, and to keep improving as both a person and a player—that’s what drives growth day by day,” he explained regarding his goals. “As for teams and titles, the competition will tell. Here, I think… well, no. I know we compete to win every title. We are going to fight for that. We know it’s difficult—that great squads have been assembled—but we are going to try to fight for everything,” he concluded, days before the season began in Abu Dhabi with the EuroLeague Super Cup.
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