Kevin Punter’s Desire to Extend His Stay at Barça
The American guard, Kevin Punter, has expressed his delight with life in Barcelona and at Barça, which has fueled his desire to renew his contract with the club. Having signed a one-season deal with Barça last summer from Partizan Belgrade, Punter is eager to extend his stay. “Everything is great, and I would like to stay here for a few more years. I’ve thought about it, asked myself certain questions, and the answer is clear: 100%, I’d like to stay,” he said in an interview with the Catalan club’s media.
Punter, a native of the Bronx, has drawn comparisons between Barcelona and New York, noting the similarities in the constant bustle of activity in both cities. However, he’s quick to point out that Barcelona has something unique to offer – its climate. “I love Barcelona and its climate; it’s immaculate. In New York, it’s always cold,” he said, highlighting one of the key differences between his hometown and his current residence.
Now in his ninth season in Europe, the 31-year-old Punter has put his dream of playing in the NBA behind him. Until his seventh season in Europe, he would spend his summers thinking about how to make the leap to the NBA, but he’s since come to understand the complexities of the basketball world. “I’ve made peace with it; I realize that getting to the NBA isn’t just about the basketball,” he reflected.
Looking back on his career in Europe, Punter is proud of the progress he’s made. From his humble beginnings in Lavrio, Greece, to his current role at Barça, he believes his hard work has paid off. “It’s a demonstration that all the effort I’ve put in, all the work I’ve done season after season, hasn’t gone unnoticed,” he said. Punter’s commitment to self-improvement is evident, as he confessed, “I’m always trying to improve; I’m not a complacent player.”
As he’s matured as a professional, Punter has found a sense of calm, allowing him to focus on his goals and strive for continuous improvement. “I’m at a point in my career where I’m more at peace, and I can focus on being better every day. I’ve let go of certain things that used to bother me,” he explained, showcasing his growth both on and off the court. With his sights set on the future, Punter is eager to see what’s next for him at Barça, and it’s clear that he’s found a home in the city and with the club.
