Basketball player Clément Frisch and his partner Lilas experienced a period of adjustment lasting several months before finding their rhythm in Vitoria, according to a recent report.
“My girlfriend wanted to enroll in a school to learn Spanish, but her admission was refused due to overwhelming demand. It wasn’t easy for her, and consequently, it affected me too. You move to a new country, you’re not working, and… you get bored.”
Lilas eventually secured a place in a beginner’s class, while Clément navigated his own hurdles, particularly in his interactions with coach Paolo Galbiati.
“Initially, we had no connection beyond the court, where he would frequently express his displeasure. I felt somewhat imposed on him, and he wasn’t convinced by my presence. My agent, who maintains contact with the club, initially withheld this information to spare me. He only informed me much later, allowing me to fully grasp the context of my arrival. Fundamentally, I am also considered a project for the power forward position, but the coach believes I am somewhat ‘undersized’ to play as a four at this competitive level.”
Over time, their professional relationship began to improve.
“After the semi-final against Barça (which ended 70-67), I felt compelled to speak with the coach that evening. I was too tense and deeply frustrated by my lack of impact on the game. I felt as though I was squandering opportunities. During that conversation, he offered me genuine and valuable feedback. He responded: ‘I’m just like you, always a bit nervous, like a live wire. You’re doing excellent work, you have nothing to worry about.’ Perhaps he simply wanted to instill confidence in me for the following day, but his words meant a great deal to me. I’ve always known that I would require an adaptation period, and I remain unconcerned. I’m starting from a humble position, with a very limited role (averaging 10 minutes in the Euroleague and 13 in the Liga), and it is entirely up to me to progressively climb the ranks and establish myself as a recognized player at this level.”
