Over the recent years, it feels like North Carolina has been home for several noteworthy international prospects. Without listing every player, guys like Derin Saran, Ryan Soulis, Domas Kauzonas, and Christ Essandoko are merely a few of the applicable names we’ve seen in the last two classes. Now, Miki Gacic looks likely to keep the trend going. The Serbian point guard enjoyed a strong high school season at Asheville School and turned heads this past weekend with 1 of 1 Elite. We had the chance to speak with him about his game, players he watches, and perspective in comparing the stylistic differences between the America and Serbia.
JB: Describe your game and how you see yourself on the floor.
MG: I’m a really good passer. I shoot the ball a lot, and I like to play European style.
JB: Speak to some of the differences between the game in America versus Serbia
MG: The game here is fast, but I like to play fast. Back home, it’s a lot about passing. Here it’s a lot about one-on-one. It’s a big difference and I need to adapt to that in order to play at a high level.
JB: What are some things you need to work on going forward?
MG: I need to work on my body for sure. Getting better as a shooter off the dribble. I just need to continue developing confidence here in the states.
JB: Who are some players you model your game after?
MG: Milos Teodosic and Facundo Campazzo.
In breaking down his on-court identity, Gacic clearly knows his game and how to play to his strengths. He’s a true point guard who displays a high-level understanding of how to run a team and make his presence felt on both ends of the floor. In addition to his calm demeanor and terrific pace, Gacic utilizes his tight handle and phenomenal vision to consistently generate clean looks for himself and others. Whether making the initial pass, running a two-man action, or improvising to create openings, his head is always on a swivel and surveying to make the best possible read. Given his international background, it’s unsurprising that Gacic is so great at keeping the ball in motion. His comments regarding a “European style” are quite clearly evidenced through his approach to the game. While others are attempting to put together highlights of unnecessary isolations, Gacic wastes no dribbles or movements. He rebounds well for his size and defends effectively at the point of attack. Gacic is also more than capable of applying scoring pressure, both as a penetrator and spot-up option. There’s already a lot to like, so Division I coaches should be watching closely over the coming months.
