Despite feeling “blessed” that the NBL season is continuing, Nottingham Hoods guard Victor Olarerin has admitted that the new basketball environment has been “tough” in an exclusive interview with CBJTarget.
Setting goals in the Covid-19 pandemic has proven problematic for everyone, but for Victor Olarerin and the rest of his Nottingham Hoods teammates, the continuation of the NBL season means they can keep properly focus on their goals.
“Personally, I am trying to grow as a player and become much more of a leader on the court,” the 21 year old says.
“We are a young team full of potential so we are using this season to develop as much as possible and learn as a team.”
The Hoods currently sit 10th in the NBL with a record of 2-5 and, whilst two wins from seven games might not seem like the strongest start, Olarerin insists that the amount of young players in the team means the potential to improve is huge.
“Playing through this pandemic has been miles different to any other season I’ve competed in before.”
Nottingham hoods guard Victor olarerin
The Covid-19 pandemic has thrown all sports seasons and leagues into chaos and Olarerin admits that it has been “tough.”
“Playing and training has been tough as maintaining fitness at times has been very hard with us having to isolate,” he said.
Games [are] being cancelled and at times we don’t know if the season is going to continue.”
Next up for the Hoods are games against Newcastle and Thames Valley and Olarerin is not only prioritising results, but enjoyment on the court.
NBL & Nottingham Hoods Stats
- 14 teams compete in Premier Division
- 26 game season
- Last season was declared null and void as a result of the outbreak of Covid-19
- Hoods current record is 2-5
- Hoods won NBL Division 2 in 2018
“Two wins on the road to help us secure a play-off spot [would be great],” he said.
“Most importantly it’s about having fun out there and enjoying the game we all love.”
By Sam Elliott and Milo Clay
