Coach Chauncey Billups sent him straight onto the court in the game against Phoenix, and the Czech basketball player logged a solid debut with almost 14 minutes on the floor. He impressed with a beautiful three-pointer, a quick assist, and a smart finish.
"It all happened so fast. I think I’m in a bit of a transition period now, getting used to the arena and the environment - I’ve only been here two days. But it was good. It felt great to be out there with the guys and just play," Krejci told a group of reporters who came to interview the new Trail Blazers signing.
The Czech forward had to wait until the end of the second quarter for his first basket, having missed his first three shots. But when the ball finally dropped through the net on an impressive three-point attempt, the crowd applauded, and his new teammates celebrated the three-pointer as well.
"Yeah! In that moment, it just felt amazing. You know it’s going in. But obviously, it wasn’t my best shooting night—I’ve had a couple of crazy days. I felt good on all my shots, but I think three or four of them were short. But once my legs are back under me, I’ll get back to my usual self," he promised with determination.
After travelling more than 4,500 kilometres from east to west, he was still processing the emotions and fatigue.
"But I’ll get used to the time zone too. What time is it now, really? Two in the morning? I just need to get some sleep. I’ve got two more days until the next game, I’ll hit the gym, get my legs right, and I think I’ll be fine soon," he explained.
The South Bohemian native arrived in Portland at a tough time. The team is still holding onto a play-in spot, but a six-game losing streak is never pleasant.
"You know, we have to stay positive. The season is long, everyone goes through ups and downs. And I think today was a good performance. I felt like we played better than in previous games. All we can do now is clear our heads and focus on the next game," Krejci said.
He also admitted he was excited by the way the Blazers try to play. "I really felt like we played fast and aggressive. It’s all about movement, playing off the ball, and passing. And it was fun. I really love that style of play, where everyone shares the ball and the pace is quick. So I’m looking forward to the rest of the season," he said.
Krejci now faces a period of getting to know the team’s systems, defensive schemes, and gradually meeting his new teammates and staff. But he’s not worried about fitting in.
"Of course, it always depends on the team you join. But from the first minute here, I felt that everyone -coaches, players, everyone in the organisation - has supported me incredibly and tried to make the transition as easy as possible for me. That really helps you build confidence," he said gratefully.
And the only Czech basketball player in the league is also happy that even if his shot doesn’t go in, he gets support.
"Hey, keep shooting, that’s what we want. We believe in you," he said he heard both in practice and during the game.
"It’s always easier when you get that kind of positive feedback," Krejci said with a smile.
