Hall: «I want everyone on the floor feeling my presence»
A few hours after the official announcement of Olympiacos' partnership with Donta Hall, the American center spoke to the club’s official website, Olympiacosbc.gr, about the new chapter in his career, his goals for the upcoming season, and the energy he plans to bring to the Peace and Friendship Stadium!
What was your first thought when you learned about Olympiacos’ interest?
"Honestly, I was excited. I was speechless. My agent called me, and when he mentioned Olympiacos and explained everything that was going on, I just said: ‘This is perfect. I’m ready to go there”.
What are your goals for the upcoming season?
"I believe the goal is the same for everyone on the team: to win titles. In recent years, Olympiacos has reached the Final Four, which is extremely important. But now, we need to finish the job. The goal is to get back to the top of Europe and defend the title in Greece. In other words, the goal is one: to win all the trophies."
If you could describe this new chapter in your career with one word or phrase, what would it be and why?
"With one phrase? I’d say: ‘push forward’… Coming from Baskonia, I feel that this transfer is the step I needed to reach the next level in European basketball. I want to stay true to my style - bringing energy, dunking, blocking shots, doing what I do best - but at the same time, evolve and become more aggressive. I feel like this season will be a big step for me."
What can Olympiacos fans expect from you on the court?
"What I do best is block shots, dunk, and bring crazy energy to the game. I want to play with passion and joy, and I want everyone on the court to feel that I’m there. I want to help the guys around me perform better and bring my intensity to the game. That’s my mission this season."
You’ve experienced the Peace and Friendship Stadium as an opponent many times. How does it feel to be playing in front of Olympiacos fans as part of the team?
"It’s incredible! The fans in Greece are truly passionate, which I really like. Their energy pushes me to play even harder. I’ve been on the other side, especially in that Game 5 of the playoffs against Monaco, the atmosphere was electric! That feeling, even in that game, even though I was on the opposing team, was amazing. Now that I’m part of this team, I already feel nothing but love."
Would you like to send them a message?
"Absolutely! I want to tell them that I’m here, ready to get started, to work hard, and to bring all my energy. To raise the level of basketball together with the team. I’m ready to play in front of you, to enjoy the game, to block shots and dunk. Let’s go make it happen!"