Great Dane is hungry for Eagles glory

IT is not often you can sign a foreign international player to complete your roster as you prepare for another tough season, writes JEFF KING.

Yet in Denmark’s 6’ 7” Zarko Jukic that is exactly what Esh Group Eagles Newcastle achieved.

The immensely athletic and talented forward is only 23 but has already seen action in the top-flight divisions of Denmark, Sweden and last season in Spain’s LEB Gold League, which many consider a step above the BBL.

The name does not sound Danish – his parents are Serbian – but he was born and raised in Denmark along with his brother Darko, a guard who also plays for the Danish national side.

Jukic impressed in his early practice sessions so much, particularly defensively, he earned a starting spot in the Eagles’ pre-season opener against Team USA Select and showed clearly his athletic ability and wing-span will add a different dimension to the Eagles this term.

Jukic picked up a slight niggle in training last week and had to sit out last weekend’s two subsequent pre-season wins - but he hopes to be back for the Betway All-Stars basketball tournament at London’s O2 tomorrow.

He said: “I had a check-up on Tuesday and I have a little bit of damage around the rib but I am able to return to practice this week and test it out and hopefully I will be ready to go this weekend.”

However, his slight problem has not stopped him from enjoying his time in Newcastle so far and getting to know the city, the club and his team-mates.

Jukic added: “Generally, I like this group of guys and all the surroundings we have basketballwise.

“It is a very professional set-up and a very nice place to be so far.

“The city itself is nice. I like a big city and it has plenty of options for things to do - I like it very much.”

Looking ahead to tomorrow’s tournament, where the Eagles face Bristol Flyers in their first game, Jukic is aware it is something a little bit different.

He said: “I heard some of the rules, five-point plays and all this.

“I think our coaches will come up with a strategy which works best.

“We will just have to go out there and play and do our best to adapt.

“I feel like we have a very good offensive team and that is what this tournament might suit.

“I think we can make the powerplays work for us.”