The Wrath of Jasikevicius

Back in the day, international players-–we called them "Euros"--were supposed to be all sweetness and light for the league. They knew their fundamentals, didn't talk back, and were just glad to be away from all the ethnic cleansing. If the NBA was going to hell, these guys were going to save its honor.

Few of these players were as prized as Sarunas Jasikevicius. The hard-nosed, sharpshooting Lithuanian point guard was pursued by nearly every team in the league, before finally deciding to sign with the Pacers in 2005. He was expected to immediately make an impact, and possibly change the culture of that team.

Fast forward to today, where Jasikevicius is stuck on the Warriors bench and sulking about his role. He did a long interview with Mundo Deportivo that voices his discontent. I'm relying on the translation of some choice quote on Hoops Hype:

"I wanted to play in the NBA, I had to try. But I made a bad decision. It was a big mistake to sign with the Pacers."

"I have a good relationship with Don Nelson but he has the star, Baron Davis, and the future starting point guard, Monta Ellis. I understand that. What I don't understand is why they didn't trade me when they could."

Now it's possible this isn't meant to be as harsh as it sounds; I'm not sure how to take "I'm not happy. If I was, I would have to retire." Don't forget about that time Pau Gasol supposedly spit on Memphis in foreign language interview. But the important thing here is that the Cabbage Man is pissed. And not making a secret of it. This may be standard-issue NBA behavior, but aren't these imported dudes supposed to be above it? Aren't they?