Vasilije Micic was signed by the Charlotte Hornets at the February trade deadline and is part of the Gordon Hayward trade, along with Tre Mann and Davis Bertans. Although Micic is only 30 years old, this was the first time he changed teams in the middle of the season, as transfers are not common in European basketball. Micic spoke to Basket News and shared his experience.

On the day of his transfer and his first game…

“I didn’t even know I was going to play. In my mind I wanted to play the next game, then I came on an early flight that morning. When they told me I had to go through the set pieces, I was honestly shocked because I was dead tired. I packed the night before and coach (Steve Clifford) said let’s go through the preparations. What could I say, I had to play.”

– Vasilije Micic

Despite Micic’s reservations, he had an impressive first game, finishing with an efficient 18 points and 9 assists in a win over Memphis. Micic has settled into his role as a starter well, averaging 29 MPG, 11.8 PTS, 2.4 REB, 6.3 AST, 2.3 TO in 21 games while shooting 45% from the field and 30.5% from the three-point line.

For next season, Micic is expected to be the team’s primary backup point guard behind LaMelo Ball. However, he could face a battle in training camp with Tre Mann, who played shooting guard last season due to injuries.

You can watch the full interview with Micic below

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