Balbay ready for a new challenge

The Texas Longhorns made a very important spring signing in Turkish point guard Dogus Balbay. The 6-foot, 177-pound lead guard will bring on the ball defensive capabilities, a second pure point guard and athleticism to the Longhorn backcourt in the 2007-08 season.

Through six games at the 19 and under World Championship, Balbay leads the Turkish team in scoring, rebounds, assists and steals. Heading into Friday's game in the quarter-finals, Balbay is averaging 13.8 points, 6.3 rebounds (best among guards), 3.8 assists and 2.3 steals. Balbay took the time out of his busy schedule in Novi Sad, Serbia to give Orangebloods.com an email question and answer interview.

Q: How are the workouts going with the Turkish national team? What teams do you play with?

A: We had a great preparation period for this tournament in Turkey. We didn't play too many games but we had two practices everyday. Condition and strength practices were helping us during the pre-camp. I play for U18 and U19 teams.

Q: What made you decide to sign with The University of Texas? Did you visit colleges other than Texas?

A: I just want to get education and combine it with basketball together. The University of Texas offered me a scholarship, so I went there. I know how big UT is. No doubt, I didn't visit colleges other than Texas.

Q: How did the season go at Brewster Academy? Was it a big change for you in life more than basketball?

A: Last season I played for Brewster Academy and that was very helpful for me. The American culture, basketball, and education system were different than my country. The first month was very hard for me and therefore my coaches, friends and teachers helped me a lot. After two months, I had no problem. Now I feel more ready for college basketball.

Q: What are your goals while at The University of Texas? Do you have any expectations for your freshman season?

A: I want to get an NCAA Championship under the Texas uniform. I want to be helpful for my team. I think my freshman year will be hard, but I'm going to work hard to make everything easy.

Q: Have you spent time with many of The University of Texas basketball players? If you have, have you got to the point where you're comfortable around them?

A: I have spent my time with all players. All of them are very good people. I met everybody, even their families. I never felt alone in the two days during my visit to Texas. They are going to be my new family. I went to the lake in Texas. I really liked it.

Q: What are your strengths as a point guard and player?

A: I'm a good defender. I have good court vision as a point guard. I like to play fast. I don't like to talk about myself too much. We are going to see on the court next year.

Q: What are your weaknesses or parts of the game you need to improve?

A: I need to improve my shot. I have been working on my shot. Long or short distance doesn't matter. I have to make all the open shots.

Q: What is the biggest difference between the American game and the European game?

A: I think American game is based on one on one and more like individual abilities. European game is based on team play and team defense. In Europe there are many plays on offense. You follow these plays in the game. At the end of the games, the most important thing is to get a good result as a team.

Q: What type of adjustments will you have to make to be successful playing at the college level?

A: I will work out hard. I will be focused on all practices and games.

Q: When will you move to Austin?

A: I will move to Austin in the middle of August.