Markel Brown discusses his years spent at Oklahoma State, his friendship with Marcus Smart, his favorite players, and expectations of playing in Russia.
– Welcome to Russia. How was the flight over?
– The flight wasn’t that long. I’d been to Europe before, but never Russia. This is my first time and I hope I have a good time here.
– How did you end up with Khimki?
– I heard great things about Khimki from guys that played in Russia before returning to the USA, as well as from my agent. For example, I played with Sergey Karasev in Brooklyn, and he only had good things to say about Khimki. After listening to everyone, I decided that going to Khimki would be a great option for me.
– You started your career at Oklahoma State University. What was that like?
– It was great, maybe the best part of my career. I spent all four years at one college. We had great fans and I met a lot of people. I also got a good education. It’s a great place to learn.
– You played with Marcus Smart, who’s with the Celtics now, in college. You both entered the 2014 draft…
– People ask me a lot about Marcus Smart, since we played together in college and both entered the 2014 draft. We were best friends at OSU. We liked to compete at everything, on and off the court. To this day, I can call him up any time, since he’s like a brother to me. He was a freshman when I was a junior, and those two years were special. We reached the 2nd round of the NCAA tournament and always worked really hard at reaching our goals, which is what made us professionals.
– You were ejected from one NCAA game for dunking. What happened?
– That was against Missouri. I dunked over a defender on an alley-oop, but the ref thought I said something or taunted him, since I stared at him for a while, even though I was quiet. I got a second technical foul and had to leave the game. But I’m happy we still won the game. That was the most important thing, otherwise I might have been in big trouble with coach (laughs).
– What was it like to find out you were probably going to be drafted?
– It meant a lot to me. Of course, I was happy to be in the NBA. I think it was one of the happiest moments in my life, when my dream became reality. Playing for an organization like the Nets is an incredible experience and I’m really happy that I got to represent them. I’ll never forget starting a game and scoring. It was awesome. But making the playoffs that year (2014-15) was the most important thing.
– In one interview, you said your favorite players were Tracy McGrady, Dwyane Wade, and Russell Westbrook. Why them?
– I always liked McGrady, especially his approach to the game and thinking. When he was on the court, he always played to win. He was also really quick. I respect Wade for his fearlessness and competitiveness. He’s an amazing player who’s always looking to score. Westbrook is an incredible athlete. He’s got hundreds of muscles. You can’t stop him. He’s probably the most athletic player right now in the NBA.
– You’re starting a new chapter now in Russia. What experience do you hope to gain here?
– First of all, I’m going to learn something new every day, grow and develop as a player, and get better. Of course, I expect our team to win. Everywhere I’ve played, my goal has always been to win. That’s my attitude and my approach.
– What can you add to our team’s play?
– I think I can give Khimki athleticism, good defense, and consistent offense. I’m a combo guard, and can play defense and score the ball. I don’t have any problem playing without the ball. I’m happy sharing with my teammates and passing to the open man. Everything that happens, happens on the court. I do everything to help my team win.
– What do you think about the VTB United League and Eurocup?
– I’m excited to play in these competitions. I know we can win the VTB League and Eurocup and make it to the Euroleague. A lot of former NBA players compete in these leagues and it’s going to be interesting to play against them.
