Noah Farahan says European competition is a big challenge: "We want to do big things"
The 25-year-old guard arrived this summer and expects to be a leader as MZT balances domestic play, ABA2 and FIBA EuroCup commitments.
Noah Farahan, the 25-year-old American guard who joined Macedonian champion MZT Skopje Aerodrom this summer as one of the club’s primary signings, has completed the first phase of preparation and already speaks openly about the goals for the season.
Farahan trained intensively with the squad during the opening ten days of the pre-season and is expected to play a leading role as MZT tackles three competitions: the domestic Superleague, the ABA2 League and appearances in the FIBA EuroCup.
Early impressions and locker-room mood
On life in Skopje and his start at the club, Farahan was positive: "Skopje is a really beautiful city, especially Aerodrom where I spend most of my time, and the people are wonderful and welcomed me with open arms. The coaching staff, teammates, everyone at the club are adapting well and I really feel very comfortable, literally like at home. This positive atmosphere and support are a huge motivation for me to give everything on the court and make the fans happy," he said.
He praised the team's work ethic and the way they have been building chemistry: "We have a great group of guys. Everyone has shown incredible fight and energy since the first practice. We play fast basketball, the ball moves very well around the court and every day we get more in sync. I am confident that if we stay united and stick together, an extremely successful season lies ahead of us," Farahan added.
About the added strain of a congested schedule and the European stage, he was clear about the challenge and the motivation it brings: "Competing in Europe is a huge challenge. It is a top-level competition where every team comes in fighting for each game. There is no room for relaxation, we must be fully focused and tactically precise. But it is for these kinds of challenges that top players live — to show our true character and to do big things," he said optimistically.
When asked directly whether he is prepared to assume responsibility and the leadership role at MZT, the guard answered succinctly: "Yes, absolutely I am ready!"
The team's first official test is scheduled for 26 September, when MZT Skopje will face Kumanovo in the Supercup.
Photo: press material from the event
