No kidding: Filip Borovicanin is a 6-foot-9 Lobo guard who Pitino wants to shoot more

Jul. 17—Filip Borovicanin didn’t entirely know what he was getting into when he joined the UNM Lobos in the spring as a transfer from the University of Arizona.

But it wasn’t about his role with the team.

On that front, the Belgrade, Serbia, native was confident the offense would be similar to what he played in for two seasons at the University of Arizona. He knew the Lobos roster was in need of a big guard who could handle the ball, shoot, pass and play on the wing — yes, despite being 6-foot-9 and still being asked at every turn if he is a forward, Borovicanin was recruited as a guard and has only ever played guard.

“All my life, I’m used to playing point guard,” Borovicanin said. “Then I came here (to the United States) and got a little bit taller and started playing the 2 and the 3. I’ll play anything. Whatever he needs me.”

The first time Lobo coaches got an up-close look at their new roster, during the first summer session in the beginning of June, head coach Richard Pitino shot down any notion Borovicanin might play anything other than guard.

“Filip brings size and skill,” Pitino said June 6. “He is a legit 6-9 and he can play the 1, 2 and the 3. He can play the 4, but I don’t think he’s going to need to do that on this team.”

So, if he knew his role would be as a guard, and after one month of practice it’s clear the Lobos are indeed going to play him at guard after watching him fly around in transition, dribble in the open court, find teammates with crisp passes and knock down open shots (well, most of the time, but more on that later), then what it about being a Lobo he never saw coming?

“I had just (arrived on campus) and I came to his office or something, and I don’t remember what he told me, but I looked at him like this (showing a concerned, almost surprised look),” Borovicanin said. “Then he started laughing and I realized it was just sarcastic. He’s a funny guy. …

“I think our team has a great vibe and we’re all great friends and trying to get better. It’s…

Source link : https://sports.yahoo.com/no-kidding-filip-borovicanin-6-035900792.html

Author : Albuquerque Journal, N.M.

Publish date : 2024-07-18 03:59:00

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