Delonnie Hunt Impresses in First Games, Jamir Westry Excels at JUCO Showcase, Oleg Prudius to drive for FDNY Foundation
Delonnie Hunt Impresses in First Games
Delonnie Hunt has made a dramatic entrance into European professional basketball.
Starting at point guard for the Zagreb Dinamo, Delonnie was named MVP of the season-opening Liburnia Cup when the team went 3-0, and has followed that performance by leading the Dinamo to wins against Dubrovnik and Cetavita in the team’s opening two games in the Croatian Premier League. The University of Richmond product is averaging 21 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals in the early going.
Making the transition from college basketball to the pro ranks in Europe is not always easy.
“The transition to play professionally overseas is more than just continuing a career,” said Luca Mascarin of IPZ partner Players Group. “It’s about adapting to a new culture, new language, new lifestyle and embracing a different style of play. Talent and skills aren’t enough. It’s a journey that tests your resilience as much as your talent.”
“Croatia is a wonderful place,” said Delonnie. “I couldn’t ask to be in a better place to start my pro career. The team has welcomed me with open arms and allowed me to be myself. There are a lot of skilled and physical players in this league, but my teammates and coaches have helped me adjust to the physicality.
“I also have to shout out my alma mater the University of Richmond and head coach Chris Mooney for helping me think of the game, rather than rely on physical attributes. That has helped me adapt to the European Pro style as well.”
The Dinamo next play Saturday against Alkar, with whom they are tied atop the Premier League standings.
Jamir Westry Excels at JUCO Showcase
Jamir Westry was named one of the 10 top performers at the Wichita JUCO Jamboree last weekend in Wichita, KS. The event, which started in 2011, rotates to locations around the country, and enables Division 1 college coaches to watch Junior College talent before their actual seasons begin.
“We had more than 150 coaches at the event, the great majority being from Division 1 schools,” said Brad Winton, the Director and co-owner of the Jamborees. “Over the years, this has been an excellent stage for players to be seen by coaches…to show their skill level both on and off the court…and to serve as a springboard for these athletes.”
Jamir, who will play at Garden City (KS) Community College this season, appreciated the opportunity.
“It was an amazing experience to compete in the Showcase as a first-year athlete,” he said. “The environment, with so many coaches there, was intense. I’m glad to have had that experience with my teammates as we get ready for the upcoming season and grateful to be recognized as one of the top performers.”
Oleg Prudius to drive for FDNY Foundation
Oleg Prudius, former WWE wrestler and now a television and film actor, has decided to drive for the FDNY Foundation in the Great American Road Rally – Celebrity Edition, which will air next year on the CW Network.
“Helping New York’s Bravest will be a privilege,” said Oleg as he made his decision. “With next year being the 25th anniversary of 9/11, supporting the great work of the men and women of the FDNY will have even more meaning.”
The show will air over 12 weeks and take the drivers from Chicago to Santa Monica along the fabled Route 66.
“We could not be more excited about this partnership and to the incredible opportunity we will have over the next few months to showcase Oleg and to capture the impactful story of the FDNY Foundation in an incredible way as part of this event,” said Eric Richey, the Chief Executive Officer of 7 Bridges Media Group, and Executive Producer of The Great American Road Rally. “This partnership carries special meaning. As the Rally roars down Historic Route 66 beginning at the end of April, we also pause to honor the brave FDNY members who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to others as we remember the 25th Anniversary of 9/11.”
