Bryant Dunston is back: “It wasn’t planned, but I stayed in shape and seized the opportunity.”
Shortly before heading to Lithuania, where Olympiacos will face Zalgiris Kaunas in the EuroLeague, Bryant Dunston spoke about his return to the red-and-white ranks. “It wasn’t planned,” he admitted. “I started training with the team. I’ve kept myself in shape and wanted to seize every opportunity to contribute. I want to bring energy and experience, unite the guys in the locker room, be an extra voice from the bench for the others, and help out on the court as well. I want to be the kind of player who can make a difference just by being there.”
“I’m excited about the team we have; there’s talent and players with great potential. It’s wonderful to be part of this team. It’s going to be an exciting season. I want to take the court, play, and have fun. That’s what’s on my mind. I don’t think about what people say about my age.”
“I’m lucky to be able to play basketball again, and I want to thank Olympiacos for giving me this opportunity.”
For Dunston, joining Olympiacos is a true homecoming, as he had already written important chapters of his career with the Piraeus-based club: it was precisely while wearing the red-and-white jersey that the American forward—a naturalized Armenian citizen—made his EuroLeague debut in the 2013 season. It’s a bond that clearly never fully broke, bringing him back to Greece after stints with Efes, Zalgiris Kaunas, Pallacanestro Varese, and Virtus Bologna.
The 40-year-old joins Olympiacos after a season with Olimpia Milano, with whom his contract expired on June 30. He made an excellent impression in the red-and-white of Milan, so much so that coach Ettore Messina publicly praised him: “I consider it an honor to have him with us; he’s helping us on the court and off the court. In terms of his style of play, team mentality, and professionalism, he reminds me a lot of Kyle Hines.” These are significant words, considering the impact Hines has had on Olimpia’s recent history.
Before signing with Olympiacos, Dunston’s name had also been mentioned in Italy: according to reports from *Nuova Venezia*, the player had turned down an offer from Pallacanestro Trieste. Nutribullet Treviso had also considered him as a possible replacement for the injured Ed Croswell, only to ultimately opt for Christopher Anigbogu. A decision that, in light of today’s statements, appears entirely consistent with Dunston’s desire to continue competing at the highest European levels, away from Serie A.
