Exclusive Interview, Deon Thompson: I'll continue to respect him even tho I was never given respect from him..

How would you describe the time that you played for Galatasaray?

My time at Galatasaray was unlucky, I came into the season with high expectations for myself and for the team that was put together. Our team was deep at every position, with guys who could be starters and contributors on many high level Euroleague clubs coming off the bench or even sitting out of Turkish league games. And with have such a deep and talented roster, at the end of the day someone will be left out and won’t get to play big minutes.In that case, I was the unlucky one who was left with the small amount of playing time and opportunity. The type of player I am didn't fit in Coaches' system, where in the past I played at the 4 position, but for Coach I wasn't his type of 4. In his system I fit in as the 5 man. And with already having such good 5s like Tibor and Alex I was the 3rd option for Coach. Which is something I came to accept while I was there and tried to embrace my role and do the best I could with my opportunities.

What were the reasons that led you to leave Galatasaray?

The main reason I left is simple, I wanted to play. For me it was hard to leave, my wife and I enjoyed our time there and was comfortable living there. As well as being around my teammates, there is a great group of guys there. I am hoping for the best for them during the rest of this season. 

Did the idea of ​​separation belong to you or was it a mutual decision?

A little bit of both. Once it was clear that I wasn't going to get much playing time, it was best for me as well as the club that we came to an agreement.

Do you have any regret about Galatasaray?

Regret no, that's how things go in sports sometimes. You see it often, where players just don't fit into a system or a style of play. And that was the situation while I was there. Being here in Belgrade, I feel like a different player and when you watch me play I look like a different player. But it's nothing that I did, I'm still the same player it's just the style of play and their system here has been a better fit. 

How was the relationship with coach Ergin Ataman?

Very different. From what I experienced while I was there, coach doesn't really have a relationship with his players. I don't want to say anything negative about anyone, I was taught better then that. I will continue to respect him, even tho I was never given respect from him.  

Do you want to say something about the fans?

Just want to thank them again for their support. Even when things are bad, stay behind the guys. Through good times, like last season where the team won Eurocup and even through the bad times where the team is struggling in the Euroleage. Through the ups and the downs, good and the bad you are all in it together. Even tho my time there was short, there will always be apart of my that will be cheering for Galatasaray