Deepankar Sharda

Tribune News Service

Chandigarh, September 19

Satnam Singh Bhamra, the first Indian basketball player to be drafted in the National Basketball Association (NBA), today said the government must build a mechanism to reward the achievements of athletes instead of making them run from pillar to post to get recognition,.

“I am not aiming for a government job, but a player should get what he deserves. At one occasion, I was awarded by the former Punjab Government for becoming the first Indian player to be drafted into the NBA, but I don’t believe the reward was as per the achievement,” said the 7 feet 2 inches tall cager from Punjab.

In Chandigarh to interact with the students of New Public School, Satnam said his priority would remain to play basketball, whether in India or abroad.

He also advised the budding basketball players that they should forget about everything and give their 100 per cent once on the court.

“Once you enter the courts, forget everything. You should play with a free mind and take advantage of your skills. We have not been taught in such a manner but kids like you are lucky to have such infrastructure,” said Satnam.

He also stressed the need of having world-class infrastructure for players. “It’s our duty to provide every possible help to the youngsters. The sport in India has seen a positive change and the future augurs well for the players. I hope the NBA academies and other efforts will provide youngsters a platform to showcase their talent,” he said.

Jagdeep Singh Bains, who accompanied him to the school, said there was a dire need of professional basketball leagues in India.

Satnam has played under Bains and also considers him as his idol.

“We have to have professional leagues in India. It will not only help the juniors overcome their fears, but will also allow foreign clubs to play here and provide a great platform to the best of the talent,” said Bains.