Nick Kay ready to stand tall in Spain

On the eve of his debut European basketball season, two-time NBL champion Nick Kay has credited his experience at the Wildcats with helping him adjust to his new environment.

Kay signed with top-tier Spanish side Real Betis back in July and made the move to Seville in August.

The back-to-back All-NBL First Teamer said the transition took some time.

“I’m settling well over here. It wasn't the quickest process adjusting, but very happy and excited for the games to start,” said Kay.

“Thankfully, all the guys on the team speak some English which has made it a whole lot easier.

“The things I learned from the leadership group in Perth have come in handy and quickened the process.

“We were also fortunate enough to have a team camp which helped bring everyone together.”

 He said it’s been an intense pre-season.

“A typical Spain week involves training six days a week. Four to five of those days we do two sessions, and the other one or two (days) are intense as well. With the season starting, the number of sessions has dropped down but intensity remains high,” he said.

“Like any pre-season, by the end of it the players are ready for the season to start. There is confidence within the group, as there is good team chemistry, but pressure to play well.”

He said his coach has been clear with his on-court expectations - and it’s what the Red Army has witnessed over the last two seasons.

“Just be me. Play hard, set good screens, rebound the ball and shoot it when I am open. When I arrived, we had a video session of what they liked about my game style and what I thought I could bring to the group which made the understanding very simple.”

In the rare moments where he isn’t in the gym, Kay has been getting used to Spanish life and even getting a bit of travel in.

“There is a very relaxed feeling over here which can be seen through the midday siestas. The sleep-ins have been nice but the late nights took some adjusting to,” he said.

“The weather is beautiful over here. Been fortunate enough to be out and about seeing the lovely sights of Seville, spending time by the pool and even got a weekend in Portugal, so keeping busy when we get the chance.”

Real Betis open their season on Friday against Club Joventut Badalona, before meeting Monbus Obradoiro on Sunday (Spanish times).

¡Buena suerte, Nick!

Image: Twitter/@RealBetisBasket