A historic victory over Crvena Zvezda and the KLS league title marked KK Zlatibor’s season, and one of the team’s key players was Terrence Hunter-Whitfield. Named the league’s Best Defender, Whitfield showcased his „warrior mentality“ on defense and highlight-reel moves on offense, proving what it means to be a true „two-way player.“ In an interview for our portal, Hunter reveals how he and KK Zlatibor took down a EuroLeague powerhouse, who his mentor was, and why Serbia will always hold a special place in his heart.
This was your first season in Europe. How tough was the adjustment?
– I wouldn’t say it was tough, but it took me a little time to get used to it. Mostly, I needed to get a feel for the European style of basketball and how the game is played here.
How would you describe the difference between American and European basketball?
– American and European basketball are quite different. In Europe, the game is much more focused on fundamentals and tactics. It’s more of a „mind game.“ Because of the play style, the coaches, and the atmosphere, different types of players can really find their place here.
KK Zlatibor had an exciting season – winning the KLS and pulling off a historic win over Crvena Zvezda. How did you experience this past year?
– I had an incredible and fun journey with KK Zlatibor. We won the KLS and beat a team that was among the top ten in Europe this year. We did something no one expected of us. That game and that victory will stay with me forever.
What left the strongest impression on you regarding the club, your teammates, and the coaching staff?
– I think what they noticed most about me was my hustle, my defense, and the fact that I play on both ends of the floor. I always try to bring energy to the team, and I believe my teammates and coaches recognized that.
Do you have a favorite teammate? Who helped you the most when it came to adjusting to a new environment?
– It’s impossible to pick just one favorite teammate. When you go through a season like this and face these kinds of challenges together, everyone becomes a favorite. If I had to highlight someone, it would be Nemanja Protic, who helped me the most with the adjustment. He was always real with me and told it like it is. Sometimes you think you know something, but then he explains where you’re wrong, and you realize he’s right. I’m very grateful to him for that.
The fans really embraced you, and you gave back with strong performances. How much does that connection with the crowd mean to you?
– I love the Zlatibor fans so much; it’s hard to even put into words. They carried me throughout the whole season. They were behind us every single game. And when there’s a bad call or something the refs miss – trust me, the fans will let them know immediately. Zlatibor fans will always have a special place in my heart.
You were named the league’s Best Defender. Energy and toughness are your trademarks. Where does that mentality come from?
– That toughness started when I was a kid. I’ve been an underdog my whole life. I was never on the big-name teams with the big-name guys. So, I focused on something a lot of people don’t like doing – playing defense on the opponent’s best player and being tough and energetic. Most players just want to shoot 3s and score, but not everyone wants to do the dirty work on defense. I embraced that, and people started to notice.
How did you like life in Zlatibor? Did you have a chance to get to know the place and the people?
– Zlatibor is very pleasant. The air is fresh because we are in the mountains. I had the chance to experience your customs, the church, the prayers, and the tradition. I enjoyed every bit of it. I also met people who told me about the history of Serbia and Serbian culture. It was all very interesting and left a strong impression on me.
Serbians are very proud of their cuisine. Is there any food you particularly liked?
– Trilece – best dessert ever! And I love sarma. I could eat that stuff all day.
When you tell your family and friends about your time here, what will you highlight as the most important thing?
– The fact that everyone treated me like family. They took me in as one of their own. Because of that, I felt right at home.
What are your future plans?
– My next step isn’t fully decided yet. Right now, I’m just focused on enjoying the summer and working on things I need to improve on the court. But I feel like I’ve made a name for myself in Serbia, and I’m really excited to see where my career goes from here.
Milanka i Bojan Savic
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