It is amazing what the sport of basketball can do. Through email, and our mutual passion for basketball, I have made a friend in Fred Roggen, a European basketball writer. He sent me an interview he did with Matt Bauscher, translated, that is on his new team's fan website. You can also see an article about Matt in the Idaho Statesman (Nick Jezierny) by CLICKING HERE.
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Matt Bauscher: :"The Passion The Crowd In Groningen Has For Basketball Is Something I'm Looking Forward To"
by Fred Roggen, Euro Basket
I had a quick talk with Matt Bauscher, who signed a two-year deal with
GasTerra Flames and made this interview especially for the fansite of the Flames, Donarbasketbal.nl.
You have been amazingly consistent throughout the Dutch league this season. How have you raised your efficiency?
I just try to stay mentally focused. It's a long season, so you have to be prepared and make sure you stay healthy. As far as being efficent- I try to be more than just 1 or 2 dementional. If I'm not having a good night shooting from outisde, then I like to get to the hoop or make the extra pass.
You have played more of a complete game this season. Did you go into the season with certain goals in areas where you felt needed improvement?
I know I have some things that I can really polish. I feel like I can still get alot better and am looking foward to working with Coach Marco, their staff and players!
Passion is a word that's used a lot when people talk about your career. Is that something that's a current through your whole life, or is it something basketball brings out of you?
I think when you put so much work into something and you love it...then the passion is what you feel.
I've always been passionate about the game of basketball and so far it's been working out.
What has basketball meant to you so far?
It's basically been my life, everything revolves around it. Basketball has done so much for me, as far as paying for my bacholor degree to getting to visit Europe. This summer I'm helping coach
Idaho Select- (15-18 yr old AAU team) trying to give back to some young players who maybe have the same dreams as me.
You stay in Holland, signing a two year deal with GasTerra Flames (still Donar for the fans). Everyone was surprised about that signing because the rumours told us that you were able to sign in one of the bigger leagues in Europe. Why still Holland and particular the Flames?
Well I weighed the different options after this season and felt that Groningen is the place for me. I really enjoyed my first season in Leeuwarden and I've enjoyed the Dutch culture and people. I think everyone who knows Holland basketball, knows that Groningen is a special place. The fans are like no where else! After playing against them this year, I knew what they have going on there is something unique.
Do you believe that you can be the type of player who is capable of taking the Flames to the top?
I really wanted to sign with a contender. If I didn't think we had a legitmate chance at making a run for the title I would have never signed with the Flames. I think I'll fit in good with their system and players. They play so hard, with so much emotion and I'm looking forward to being a part of it.
Finally what message do you have for the fans of Donar ...uhhh... the GasTerra Flames?
I can't wait to put on that uniform! August is going to be here before we know it and I'm anxious to get started. The passion the crowd in Groningen has for basketball is something I'm looking forward to.
Matt thanks for the chat and see you in August.