M. Gelabale: "I can play in the NBA"

Mickael Gelabale was this week’s guest on the Tony Parker Show. The former Seattle guard wants another shot at the NBA and dreams about playing for the French national team at the Olympics.

How are you feeling ? How is your ankle ?

I’m feeling good. I can run again. My ankle is still swollen but it will remain like that for a little time. It’s like that, I have to deal with it.

What is your goal for this new season ? Last June, you worked out with the Spurs, how did that go ?

The workout went really well. But with the lockout, there was no summer league this year. And I think NBA teams were more focused on the European Championship. For me, the Euro started well but then I got injured. So now I’m waiting, I need to weigh my options.

Playing in the NBA is still your goal?

Yes it has always been my dream and it still is. I want to prove that I can play in the NBA. In my last year in Seattle, I was injured for the last month so I couldn’t finish the season. I really feel like there is unfinished business.

Was it your best memory of your playing time in Seattle ?

Being with other French guys on an NBA court! (laughs)

And which team would you like to play for ?

San Antonio of course !

During your career, you played for Real Madrid, in Spain. If you don’t find an NBA team, would you consider playing in Europe ?

Yes I’ve already played in Spain. But at the moment, I really don’t know what I’m going to do. Last summer, my father died and I want to be close to my family. If there are no opportunities for me in the NBA, I think i’d prefer to stay in France. Like I did the last two seasons, in Cholet and ASVEL. I truly don’t know where I will be playing this season. The end of the year and the Christmas break in Europe are looming so I need to take a decision quickly.

What about the Olympics ? It has to be one of your goals for this season ?

I always keep the Olympics in mind. I can’t wait to sign with a team. I will work twice as much to make up for the lost time. To be able to play for the French national team in the Olympics, it’s really a once in a lifetime opportunity. I will do everything I can to be in shape and ready to go. But I know I need to play until then. It’s my main goal for the moment.

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