De Larrea: NBA pace similar to Valencia, but players are stronger

Spanish point guard Sergio De Larrea has begun training with the Dallas Mavericks after signing a four-year contract with the NBA franchise. De Larrea, who recently paid his release clause to leave Valencia Basket, stated that the primary difference between the NBA and European basketball is the pace, but he finds it comparable to his experience with Valencia. "The pace here is the same. The players are stronger, and that's the difference because they are just as intelligent," he told reporters after his first practice session in preparation for the Las Vegas Summer League. The 20-year-old international player sees this move as a significant step forward, having previously played for Valencia Basket, where he completed his development after leaving school in Valladolid. He was selected 25th overall in the NBA draft, with his rights ultimately landing with the Mavericks. De Larrea will be teammates with fellow Spaniard Santi Aldama, who was recently traded from the Memphis Grizzlies. He described his move to Dallas as the "best option," following his decision to join Valencia five years ago based on their project. De Larrea celebrated winning the Liga Endesa with Valencia Basket, calling it a "great achievement" and a testament to the team's cohesion. "This is a new chapter, it's a dream I had, and I am very happy," he added, recalling how he followed the Mavericks when Luka Doncic joined the team, considering Doncic an idol. The Dallas preseason also includes the Díaz Graham brothers from Tenerife, who have joined the Texas Legends, the Mavericks' G League affiliate.

“

I think the main difference is the pace, but with Valencia we already played at this pace, so I like it a lot because it's the same.