Drazen (2024) Movie Script
1
INSPIRED BY THE LIFE STORY
OF DRAEN PETROVI
- Good afternoon!
- Good afternoon.
Where are you going?
Sorry, I don't speak Polish.
We're going to Munich.
The three of us Munich
Your passport expires today.
You can't go to Germany.
You have to get new documents.
I don't understand you.
Do you speak German? English maybe?
- What happened?
- A Turk, a Hungarian, and a Croat.
Where are they all going together?
Her passport expires today.
They're not going home,
they're going to Germany.
Jacek, don't you know who this is?
Do you follow sports at all?
Come with me.
Good afternoon.
I apologize on behalf of my colleague.
He didn't realize who he was talking to.
Mr. Petrovi, you were truly amazing
in the Olympics.
- Thank you.
- Truly amazing.
Thank you, thank you.
All the best luck to you.
- Thank you. Bye.
- Thanks.
A soccer player?
Oh, my God, Jacek, get back to work!
Good afternoon.
What did I tell you?
Shit!
Can't wait to get there.
Pass it.
Lunch!
Aco, Draen! Come on!
- Don't go, let's have a quick one.
- Quick one?
One on one, you said you would.
I said maybe sometime, not now.
Leave me alone, I'm hungry.
What is it, are you afraid?
Yeah, yeah, I'm afraid of you.
You're such a Rocky!
- Did you wash your hands?
- We did.
Let me see.
- Mom, Draen is pinching me.
- I'm not.
Draen, don't lie.
Why are you pinching Aco?
Because he never wants to play with me.
And you, why don't you want
to play with your brother?
Can't you see that he wants to?
Why should I play with a kid?
He wouldn't score a basket.
I'll score you
Hey! Enough, you two!
You're home?
- Are you tired?
- No.
Come on, sit down.
Aco, is the game today?
Yes, Dad.
- Who are you playing against?
- Drni.
They are in third place,
but I think we're better than them.
Good. Fingers crossed that you win.
Dad, can I go to the game?
Have you practiced the guitar?
Yes.
Don't say you did if you didn't.
Biserka, did he?
- I didn't.
- Then why did you say you did?
Don't lie!
I don't want lies under this roof.
Understood?
Yes, Dad.
Bon apptit.
the president of The Socialist
Federal Republic of Yugoslavia
Draen.
How much did they lose by?
Not much, by ten points.
That's not a close game.
They have a big kid,
he's two and a half meters tall.
He just stands under the basket and waits.
You can't touch him.
And Aco? How did he do?
He was great.
How many did he score?
Twenty-three.
Wasn't it 24?
I missed the free throw.
What do you think?
And how many times did you shoot?
Draen, please don't.
You need to know
how many times you shot.
You said you would count.
Who can count and play
at the same time? Are you crazy?
Come on, guys.
Turn off the lights. It's 10:30 p.m.
Aco, don't be sad.
I'm not sad.
And you, no more talking
when I leave the room.
Good night.
- Good night.
- Good night.
Approximately?
Approximately what?
How many times did you shoot?
You're annoying.
Did you miss a lot of shots?
Not many. Three or four.
Then you're at roughly 80 percent.
You've improved since the year started.
You shoot less and score more.
You do it on purpose.
Bro, you're crazy.
Come on, sleep.
- Aco?
- Yes?
Why do you call me Rocky?
Leave me alone.
Just tell me what it means.
It means that you throw the ball
as if you were throwing rocks.
You have poor ball control.
How? I'm doing the same things you are.
Because you care too much.
You have to relax a little when you shoot.
Now be quiet!
Okay, today we're going to do something
a little more complicated.
We haven't done this before,
but don't worry.
It's very simple.
In one task,
we will combine addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and division. Okay?
Get your notebooks ready.
I'm writing on the blackboard.
Four plus seven.
I'm opening the bracket.
Eighteen divided by three, minus one.
I'm closing the bracket.
Relax, relax. Relax.
Draen!
Come to the board.
Correct.
And the steps?
Are you done, kid?
I'm just going to score 100.
What are you going to score?
Just a moment, I'm at 98!
One hundred.
Listen, kid.
I clean here for ten hours a day.
I have a husband and two children at home.
When I get home,
I have to cook for tomorrow.
I don't have time to wait for you
to score 100, 200, or 500.
I'm sorry, Mrs. Ane.
Here you go.
A shop near the waterfront
makes key copies.
It costs 100 dinars.
Do you have 100 dinars?
Yes.
Make yourself a key
and return this one to me.
Don't make me lose my job. Understood?
Yes.
Wait.
Do you have a wish?
- I do.
- You do?
- May I now?
- You may not.
Come on, now you can. Blow, blow!
Blow!
- Bravo! Bravo!
- I think I got it.
- Now let's do one together.
- Come on.
Come on, Aco, join the picture.
Cheese!
- Bravo.
- You've really caught me
And
here you go.
What are you waiting for? Open it.
I don't know why he is sad.
He hasn't even opened the present yet.
Not good?
Mom says you like that song.
Yes, Dad really struggled to find it.
It's fine.
Did you want another song?
No.
What is it then? Honey?
What is it?
I thought you were going
to enroll me in the basketball club.
- Son!
- Come on, Draen.
You know how time-consuming training is.
It's too early for you to play basketball.
Aco started when he was ten years old.
Aco is different.
Aco is different.
You keep quiet!
- Pass me the plate.
- Why?
- Everyone has different skills, son.
- You always get the bigger slice.
Mom and I are watching you two.
- That's right.
- Aco is talented in sports.
That was clear from the start.
You're better at other things.
That's right.
What am I good at?
- You're good at
- What are you good at?
- Math.
- Music.
Math is similar to music.
That's why you play the guitar.
Math and music are similar.
They follow the same logic.
They work in the same way.
One, two, do, la. Isn't that right?
Don't listen to Dad.
You will be your mother's little artist.
I don't like art.
You will be your mother's
little Paco de Luca.
Understood? Understood?
Bon apptit.
Thank you.
The cake turned out well.
Good morning, honey.
Sit down and eat something.
I have to go.
I'm heading to an early class.
What's with those early classes?
I don't know, I have to go.
Excuse me, Mr. Petrovi.
- Yes?
- I didn't mean to scare you.
Mrs. Skrai, Draen's guitar teacher.
I'm sorry, I didn't
I guess it is still too early for me.
How are you?
Good, thank you.
I wanted to ask
if everything was all right with Draen.
Draen?
He's all right, what do you mean?
He hasn't been in my class for a month.
I was scared that he got sick.
He didn't get sick.
Thank you.
Good day, comrade.
I think he plays really well.
He's been playing the same tune
for six months!
It's not the same, Jole.
Draen!
Are you smoking cigarettes?
No.
What are you doing?
Who are you hanging out with?
Answer the questions!
I'm training.
You're what?
I'm doing basketball training.
What basketball?
Are you crazy?
Who do you think you are? Kreo osi?
When you were a child, you were born with
with
- What is it called?
- Subluxation.
Yes, hip subluxation.
He's doing basketball training.
You are lucky you can walk.
Now you will do as I say.
No more basketball. Are we clear?
Do you hear me? Say something!
Shut your mouth when I'm talking to you!
Where are you going?
You can't tell him that.
- What can't I tell him?
- You can't tell him that!
Who is going to tell him if I don't?
- Who?
- Why do you keep telling him that?
Did I make that up?
That's what the doctor said, Biserka.
Jole, if the child wants
to play basketball, let him play.
Bila, a boy can't do whatever he wants.
Leave him alone!
What time do the classes end?
1:30 p.m.
I'm not lying.
Come home by 2:00 p.m. at the latest.
Draen!
Tomorrow we will enroll you
in the basketball club ibenka.
Yes!
ibenka!
Let's go!
Five shots each
and then go to the two-step.
Come on, Lokas, faster! Faster!
Watch how you handle the ball!
Come on, come on!
Come on, move!
Five shots each
and let's go to the two-step!
Come on, Petrovi, make it softer, softer!
You're not throwing rocks!
Fuck it, come on!
You need to relax. You need to relax.
Okay, now do the two-step, come on!
- Sit down for a moment.
- Training!
Oh, my God.
Draen, take an orange!
Come on!
- Head up! Head up!
- Come on!
- Head up!
- Come on! Come on!
Well done! Back to defense!
Bravo!
I can't believe you got through
all three of them.
You were great!
What's up, honey? Why are you sad?
That was the only basket I scored.
You only missed two or three shots.
If he had let you play more,
you would have scored more.
You'll see when the older ones
get promoted to cadets.
He will put you in the top five.
You think he's going to put me in?
Who if not you?
Maybe Klari, Gulin, Spahija?
Spahija? Is he better than you?
- I don't think so.
- Of course he's not.
You are the best.
They just don't know it yet.
But your mother knows!
Now we'll tell Dad!
Jole, where are you?
Good afternoon.
Good afternoon.
Draen, how was it?
It was great. They won.
- Bila, this is Coach Novosel.
- I know who he is.
- Biserka, nice to meet you.
- Mirko, nice to meet you.
Jole, you didn't even offer him a drink.
Oh, my God.
- Here's something homemade.
- Thank you.
As I told your husband,
I'm here for Aleksandar.
Club ibenka accepted our offer.
We want your son to be a Cibona junior.
I'll be back.
Aco is only 16 years old.
I know you're surprised,
but it's the best move for his career.
Trust me.
What about school?
He must finish high school.
That's our club's rule.
What if he doesn't make it in basketball?
As far as we are concerned,
he can continue his education
in addition to his training.
But he has to train.
Do you know who that is?
Don't be mad. You should be happy for me.
I'll see you in the summer.
And for Christmas.
I don't care when we'll see each other.
Then why are you angry?
I'm angry because you're leaving.
So what?
You didn't teach me how to play.
You are such a jerk!
You're a jerk.
Come on.
What are his chances?
Your son is very talented.
We have been watching him for over a year.
He has everything he needs
to become a real player.
I can't promise you that will happen.
What can you promise us?
He will get a chance.
I don't know. What do you think?
I think we should let him go.
Coach Novosel, are you up for a toast
with some homemade cherry brandy?
- Thanks, but I don't drink alcohol.
- Me neither.
Someone has to. For Aco.
For Aco.
I'm going to get the kids.
I'll be right back.
- Draen! Aco!
- Don't you worry. He is in safe hands.
Cibona is a serious club.
- I know.
- Mirko, Jole! You have to see this!
Come on, try.
Check out this transition.
How old is the younger one?
Eleven.
He is five and a half years younger.
- He's good.
- I know.
Good day, everyone. Thank you for coming.
You all know why we are here today.
And that reason is with us today.
Let me introduce you
to Cibona's new player.
Draen Petrovi!
Thank you, thank you.
Do you have any questions?
Draen, you were wanted
by all the strongest teams
in Yugoslavia.
Partizan, among others.
Why Cibona?
Good afternoon.
I decided to play for Cibona
because my brother plays here.
You know that.
Zagreb is not that far from ibenik.
I will be able to see my parents more.
I enrolled in university here.
We'll see how that will work.
What do you expect from the first season?
I expect to fit into the team well,
to fight for the title
in the league and in the cup,
and to go as far as possible in Europe.
Draen, the whole of Yugoslavia
is still talking
about that notorious match
between ibenka and Bosna.
Your title was revoked
at the negotiating table.
Still think you got ripped off?
Let's steer clear
of such awkward questions.
The boy will get suspended,
and the season hasn't even started yet.
We should have beaten them by ten points.
I think we should have beaten them
by ten points.
In the end, that one free throw decides.
When you're winning by ten points,
not even God can rip you off.
Excuse me! Thank you, thank you.
- Juice for the girls! Here you go.
- Thank you.
Guys, we have some news.
My love, show them.
Congratulations!
You're not inviting us to the party?
The wedding isn't until summer.
We're counting on you two coming.
What about me?
Petrovi!
Not you, we're looking for the junior.
Come with us to the bar.
He can't wait.
Watch yourself.
I'm going to tell your mom.
I came from ibenik.
Okay, we'll teach you.
- Can I have a beer?
- Of course.
- No, no. This is on us.
- No, no.
Thank you.
You paid for the drink for nothing.
Behind me. Booth, jeans, miniskirt.
To the right of the booth,
tits like watermelons.
You can't miss her.
- So?
- What?
Both are beautiful.
What? Both are beautiful?
What's the matter with you?
Maybe he's not into girls.
Come on then. Do something.
Slow down, guys, I just got here.
I don't know anyone yet.
Listen, Draen,
I know you are a complicated soul.
Layered.
But only you
and the two of us know that.
Possibly your mom.
For them, you are a Cibona player.
- The best Cibona player.
- Yes!
I haven't played a single game yet.
What do they know?
They heard you were the best.
Someone told them.
They read it somewhere.
All you need to do now
is go and stand there.
Go and stand there?
- Go and stand there.
- Go and stand there.
You're not scared, are you?
- Me?
- No, me. Come on.
- Draen Petrovi?
- Yes.
- Mirna. Nice to meet you.
- Nice to meet you.
Kid, are you okay?
- So, how was it?
- Where?
What do you mean "where"?
With "watermelons."
You mean with Mirna?
She knows a lot about basketball.
What are you looking at?
That's a three-pointer.
Now they're introducing it here.
It's been in the US for four years.
That's for me, not you.
And you'll score?
Come on, let's gather around.
All right, guys. Thank you.
Thank you very much.
So
for those who don't follow basketball,
this is the three-point line.
It's already been introduced in America.
Next season,
it will also be introduced here.
We'll train as if
it was part of the game today.
When they introduce the three-pointer,
everyone will be shooting it.
We have to be the bomb.
- Understood?
- Understood.
- Petrovis, understood?
- Understood.
Come on, warm up. Come on!
Yes?
I wanted to ask you
if I could stay after training.
Why would you stay?
To train.
Draen, I'll crush you today,
you won't want to train anymore.
- Okay, but can I stay?
- Go.
He's crazy.
And now a week in Kavkaz.
- Let's go, one on one.
- I can't, I have plans.
- Ten minutes, come on.
- I'm telling you, no.
Pussy!
I don't play with kids.
Draen, will you sign my basketball?
Yes.
- What's with the hair?
- I took my mom's big curlers.
- Why?
- I wanted to look like you.
Thank you.
You know what? Come with me.
Great!
UNSTOPPABLE DRAEN
PETROVIC DOMINATES AGAIN
What do you expect from the match?
We're gonna destroy them.
Go, go, Cibosi!
CIBONA IS THE CHAMPION OF YUGOSLAVIA!
Oh, my God!
- Mom.
- It looks good, very tidy.
I thought you were coming tomorrow.
You thought? I wanted to surprise you.
- You did surprise me.
- Well, I did.
Brush your teeth, I'll prepare breakfast.
Draen, Draen!
Enjoy your meal.
Your girlfriend is a wonderful singer.
I said that your girlfriend
is a wonderful singer.
- What is it? You think I don't know?
- What?
I understand it all, honey,
but you're a star now.
And she is a star too.
- What's wrong with that?
- "What's wrong with that?"
A lot of things. Too little time.
When do you even get to see each other?
- Mom!
- And who will follow whom?
But do you know what I want to know?
What?
Who grabbed whose attention first?
I still love you
Let him watch.
- First, she grabbed me.
- What?
And then I grabbed her a bit.
Come on, Draen,
I'm not interested in that.
- Well, you asked.
- Shut up and eat.
Okay.
Draen!
- Can we get an autograph?
- Yes.
And maybe a photo?
- Renata, take a photo of us.
- I can't.
Come on, don't mess around. Come on.
Cheese!
- Is that your friend?
- Who, Renata? Do you like her?
Renata, come on, Draen wants to meet you.
I really have to go.
- Come to the game.
- What game?
On Saturday against Olimpija.
Bring your friend.
- Just say that Draen left the tickets.
- You're so funny!
Love at first sight, huh?
- See you.
- Okay.
He likes her!
You gotta be kidding me!
They brought some kids.
My God!
Kid, you're nuts.
Is it my fault they got suspended?
We won't take it out on kids!
Are we going to let them beat us?
We'll play, we'll win,
but we won't humiliate them.
Well, you certainly won't do anything.
Don't be jealous.
- You're mentally disturbed.
- Fuck off!
- What did you say?
- Fuck off!
What did you say? No, no, no.
Hey, hey, calm down. What the fuck?
Ask him what's wrong with him.
- I just want to break the record.
- What record?
Kora, 99 points.
- Who in their right mind knows about that?
- Quiet!
Really, how do you know about that?
Everyone knows that, 1964.
1964?
Okay, and what do you think about that?
If Draen wants to break the record,
let him break it.
You will get the ball from me.
Aco?
Let him break the record.
Okay. Let him break it.
Anzulovi is passing the ball
to Draen. Draen scores!
Draen is already at 18 points.
It's still very early in the game.
The scoring spree kicked off
from the very start.
A brilliant drive down the midline
and another free throw.
Ui, Cvjetianin, Naki,
and the others watch calmly
as Draen scores 27 points.
The saga continues.
It's not even halftime yet,
and we're already at 49.
Draen's new three-pointer, 52 points.
Draen aims to score 100 points himself,
and he succeeds.
HOME - GUESHe stopped at 112. The final whistle.
DRAEN FILLED UP THE HOOP
See you in the upcoming games
of the national championship.
Best regards from Dom sportova. Goodbye.
- She left the university building.
- Follow her!
It's all good, she's going to the caf.
- Which caf?
- The first one, around the corner.
- Thank you, bye.
- Bye.
Renata, Renata, hi!
We met the other day
in front of the university. Draen.
Hi.
Do you want to grab a coffee with me?
I just had coffee.
- Are you following me?
- No.
Okay, maybe a little.
Cake?
No, I have a lot of studying to do.
Tomorrow then?
I don't think so.
I have to go. Bye.
You didn't tell me how you liked the game.
I don't really watch basketball.
I scored 112 points. Did you see that?
Yes.
That was strange.
I think it was romantic.
- "Romantic"?
- Well, I did it for you.
Please.
And what's wrong with our Draen?
Has no one ever said "no" to you?
Yes, a few times,
but I didn't take it seriously.
No. No, no, and don't follow me.
Can you just tell me what I'm doing wrong?
Please! Everyone knows
that you're with that singer.
But that's not true. Trust me.
Just read the newspaper.
Both Cibona and Real have seven wins
and three losses
in the European Super League.
Fifteen to sixteen thousand spectators
arrived in the capital of Greece
to encourage Cibona in their endeavors
to climb to the top of basketball
in Europe.
IS THE LOVE STORY OVER?
Robinson is jumping. utura, of course.
- Hi.
- Hello.
utura leads Cibona's offense.
Cibona is off to a good start.
- You guys are watching it, too?
- Of course, everyone is watching.
- Go, go
- Cibosi!
Draen Petrovi.
A brilliant play by Draen Petrovi.
Jackson.
Robinson fails.
Counterattack by Draen Petrovi.
Aleksandar Petrovi caught the last ball,
and embraced it
as a treasured keepsake from the game.
Go, go, Cibosi!
NO.1 PLAYER IN EUROPE!
Cibona outplayed Real and deservedly
brought the big trophy to Zagreb.
It's so good to see you again
To put my hands on your shoulders
- How was it?
- It was great for me.
- What's going on?
- Girls, Draen is here.
- Which Draen?
- Which one?
- Can I get an autograph?
- Yes.
- Hi, congratulations!
- Thank you.
What are you doing here?
I'm here to brag to you.
I don't know if you heard.
I heard.
Maybe we could grab that coffee now?
Now I'm going home for lunch.
Maybe I can walk you home.
Okay.
- Draen!
- Hey.
Can't people be a little more discreet?
You'll get used to it over time.
I mean
You get used to it over time.
You are very self-assured.
Listen. I have been
the best basketball player
in the country for the last two years.
Now it turns out that I am also
the best player in Europe.
I want to be the best in the world.
You can't become the best
if you don't believe in yourself.
But I'm modest.
Okay, can you talk about anything else?
- Like what?
- I don't know.
Is there something else
that interests you?
Something you're good at?
I can play the guitar.
- Come on, don't mess around.
- Seriously, I played in a band.
I'm going home, I'll be back.
If this isn't true,
you'll never see me again.
Here you go.
I haven't played in a long time.
You said you played in a band.
I went to music school.
Well, are you coming?
Wait.
- Aren't you supposed to be happy?
- Happy?
You won.
Eighteen points, that's not so bad.
You're an expert now?
No, but I know that
only two players scored more.
And do you know how many shots I missed?
- The exact number?
- Eleven shots. Five of them were open.
When you add up those 18 points,
that's under 50 percent.
Luckily, they stopped passing me the ball.
Otherwise, we would have lost.
What are you laughing at?
I'm sorry.
- I'm sorry. Come on, let's go.
- What's funny?
We would have lost the championship
if they kept passing me the ball.
Reservation for Petrovi.
- Renata's here.
- Good evening.
How many years of university
do you have left?
- Three years, if everything goes well.
- Three?
What are you planning to do next?
It's difficult to say now, but
I can work in a hospital,
in an ENT clinic,
as a speech therapist at a school,
possibly in a nursing home.
That's nice.
Renata would prefer to work with children.
That's nice!
Draen, you have food all over you.
I'll get straight to the point.
Do you know what I want to know?
What do you like about my Draen?
I'm asking because he really likes you.
You think?
One hundred percent,
a mother always knows these things.
- Well, he is very good to me.
- He is?
He's pure.
Like a child, but in a good way.
And can he be stubborn?
Well, sometimes.
He gets that from me.
Tell me, do you cook?
I am trying.
You're trying.
Okay.
And basketball?
Well
I like it, yes.
You like it.
I'm asking you because
basketball is his life.
That will always be his priority.
This doesn't mean that he is selfish.
That's just the way it is.
And we are all here just to support him.
I don't know what you want me to say.
I don't want anything, honey.
I don't know if you know
that athletes are not
in one place for long.
You're scared of what will happen
if he leaves Zagreb.
Not "if" he leaves, honey,
but "when" he leaves.
I'm wondering, when he leaves,
will you go with him?
We haven't talked about that yet.
But if he were to ask you, would you go?
We have them!
In defense, we must be aggressive,
but without stupid fouls!
We don't want them to score easy points!
In the attack, we'll go slowly,
until the time runs out if necessary.
We'll guard the ball,
waiting for an open shot.
Okay? Okay.
Did you understand anything?
Just grab the ball and play.
Let's go!
I'VE COME TO WIN IT ALL!
REAL WINS AGAIN
PETROVIC, 63 POINTS
- Want to grab a drink?
- Yes.
I've played with selfish players,
but this one wouldn't pass the ball
even if his life depended on it.
But we won.
- How did I play?
- Terribly.
- Are you ready?
- Are we in a hurry?
- I have to go home and pack.
- See you!
Come on, we won't be long.
I promise.
Come on, come on. Yes!
- Did you learn everything?
- So-so.
But I have time.
I'll study some more on the plane.
And when will you come back to me?
I was thinking of staying
a few days longer.
My sister is celebrating her birthday.
And will you miss me?
I miss you already.
We still have time for coffee.
Good. Let's go.
Here you go.
See you.
- Hello.
- Hello.
Have a nice trip.
Have a nice flight.
Hello, Mr. Petrovi.
My name is Warren LeGarie.
- I believe you were told of my arrival.
- Yeah, I know.
From the USA, right?
- You have time to grab a coffee?
- Sure, let's go.
- Sure we don't need a translator?
- It's okay.
I learned some English in school.
I've been working as an NBA agent
for almost ten years.
I believe your future is in the US.
Players from Europe don't play in the NBA.
That's not quite true.
Georgi Glouchkov, Sasha Volkov.
Mariulionis, Fernando Martn. Yeah.
Four players, and all four on the bench.
Did you play against those four?
Yeah, I did.
Then you know you're better than them.
You've become too big for this club,
and for this continent.
You don't have to tell me anything now.
Just think about it.
You can spend your best years here,
winning titles you've already won.
Or you can be remembered as a trailblazer
of European basketball in the US.
Hey!
Hey!
Wait, wait!
Close your eyes,
I have a surprise for you!
Okay.
- May I open them?
- Yes, yes.
Aco! Jadranka!
Nice to see you!
- Aren't you playing this season?
- We took some sick leave.
- Sick leave?
- Come on, come here.
We can go to the museum tomorrow.
- Look at him.
- Of course, yes.
- Have you been to a nice exhibition?
- Something is always happening here.
- I missed mom's paticada the most.
- I'll tell her you enjoyed it.
He will tell her himself,
they are on the phone every day anyway.
- Still?
- So what? There's only one mom.
Are you sleeping here tonight?
- We got a hotel room.
- There's plenty of room here.
No, no, the doctor said it's not good
to sleep on the couch.
Doctor?
- Wait, he still doesn't get it?
- What?
What don't I get?
- No?
- Yes, yes.
- For how long?
- Almost five months.
And you can already see it!
It just means that the baby
will get bigger than 190 centimeters.
- Can I touch it?
- Of course. It doesn't bite.
Look at him!
Congratulations, uncle!
Hey.
- What are you thinking about?
- Nothing.
Do you know what "trailblazer" means?
Aren't they the ones who drafted you?
They are, but what does that word mean?
Like a leader.
Someone who is always looking
for something new.
- Not bad.
- Why?
Just asking.
We're down by six,
but there's plenty of time.
Buck, Kev, Jerome, no easy points,
make them earn it from the line.
Terry, Clyde, expect some three-pointers,
then crash the offensive glass. Got it?
- On three. Two, three, Blazers!
- Blazers!
You promised me 25 minutes
per game, Warren!
If that's not lying, I don't know what is.
For the 100th time,
I only told you what they told me.
Then they lied to you.
Draen, work hard, wait for your chance.
You're new to the club.
- I've been here for six months, Warren!
- I'll be late to a meeting.
You can't just turn up unannounced
whenever you feel like it.
I see you're bulking up, that's good.
Dammit, nobody in their right mind
changes a winning team.
It's not fair of you to complain
because your team is doing well.
Susie, set up an appointment
with Draen for next week.
Everything's gonna be fine,
try to be more patient.
How does Thursday sound?
Fragile peace in Yugoslavia
is more fragile than ever.
And the president of Yugoslavia's
largest republic is warning his people
to be prepared for war.
The tension between Croatians
and minority Serbs has become intense
with daily claims
and counterclaims of murders.
The Croatian government
today predicted a major attack
within the next few days
by federal army units
aiming to take control
of Serbian communities.
The head
of the federal presidential council,
himself a Croat, said that the army
is back under political control...
- What are you doing?
- I'm calling home.
Draen, what time is it?
I don't know, half past four.
And what time is it over there?
Hey, everyone is in Zagreb
and everyone is safe.
We'll call them in the morning.
- Have you heard from Grandma Zorka?
- I did, honey.
And uncle and aunt?
I did, everyone is fine,
Draen, don't you worry.
Mom, don't lie to me, please,
I saw that these guys have rifles.
You know the media always exaggerates.
I should have been there.
Draen, don't talk nonsense,
you're more important there.
I'm on the bench!
So what, he played you!
Yes, for seven minutes.
I'd rather he hadn't played me at all.
- They don't even know, man.
- You think he might've overslept or
Maybe, but it's not usually something
that he would do.
Gentlemen, if we're gonna make the flight
All right, all right, give it a minute.
Not good.
Twisted his ankle.
Twisted his ankle?
You got to be fucking kidding me!
- All right, let's go.
- Let's go, guys! Everybody on the bus!
Need to put a step on it.
All right, listen up.
Drexler's out.
So I'm gonna need everybody
to step up tonight.
We're gonna be just fine.
Derek, you'll play the two-spot.
I expect a big night from you.
That means we're thin on the one.
Danny, I'm counting on you.
All right. Keys to the game.
Defense. Run the floor.
Easy buckets, easy buckets, easy buckets!
Fine, I can understand choosing Drexler
and Porter instead of me.
Those are great players.
I can understand him putting in
Danny Ainge, but Danny Young?
Who the fuck is Danny Young?
I thought you got along with Young.
I get along with everyone
from the club. So what?
I don't know.
It sounds like you're unhappy
with all of that.
Do you even believe in me?
Do I believe in what?
- That you are better than others?
- Yes.
I don't know. You tell me.
Are you better than others?
Yes, I am.
- Are you better than Young?
- Yes.
- And better than Ainge?
- Yes.
And better than What's his name, Drexler?
I can be if given a chance.
What about Jordan?
Favorite trophy.
That's my trophy.
We carry it everywhere we go.
You say that was
the happiest day of your life.
Yes.
Then why all this?
It's stronger than me.
I have to go pack.
- Thank you.
- Hi.
Take care.
Call me when you arrive.
Please, you don't have an appointment.
Mr. LeGarie is busy.
I want to be traded.
- Sit down, Draen. Susie.
- No. No, I want...
I know you're unhappy,
but this is no way to talk...
I don't want to be
in this club anymore, okay?
You're my agent
and you're supposed to do something.
- Or should I look for someone else?
- Where do you think you are?
My mind's made up.
I'm not listening to you anymore.
You either help me to get out of here
or I'll get out on my own.
Nobody can just up and leave.
You have a contract.
- Yeah.
- We're talking about millions of dollars.
And you think that will stop me, hmm?
Have you met any other players?
Yes, most of them.
What are they like?
Do you hang out with them,
go out to dinners?
No. They don't have time.
They play three to four matches per week.
This cake is so good!
And do you travel with Draen?
Have you been to New York?
And L.A.? Have you been there?
I went to L.A., we went to Disneyland.
I didn't go to New York.
But we plan on going.
And what's Portland like?
Basketball? You're lucky you can walk.
You need to relax a little when shooting.
You are the best.
Only they don't know it yet.
Has no one ever said "no" to you?
Petrovi.
Draen Petrovi.
Draen Petrovi scored 24 points.
The biggest achievement for Cibona
and one of the greatest achievements
in Croatian sports lately.
Draen Petrovi.
Renata?
Renata?
It's Draen.
- Hello?
- Hi.
- Hi.
- What are you doing?
Nothing, I'm reading something.
- You?
- Nothing.
- Is everything all right?
- It is, it is.
I have to tell you something.
We're going to New Jersey.
They finally traded me.
- New Jersey?
- Yes.
Renata, are you there?
I'm here, yes.
Draen, you're off to a great start
here with the Nets.
With double figures from game
to game, you seem reborn.
Do you have a message
to your former employers in Portland?
Portland? Where's that?
Did I even play there?
No, I'm just kidding.
I think the time I spent
in Portland was valuable to me.
I think I mentally matured there
and adapted
to the American style of basketball.
But yes, I'm glad I don't have
to petition to Porter
to have pity and pass
a few balls to me, so
- The last round is on the house, guys.
- Thank you, appreciate it.
- Drazen.
- It's not Drazen, it's Draen.
- Draen.
- Draen.
Like this! It's easy!
- Draen.
- Yes.
Hey, Petro, I think this bunny likes you.
Of course I like him.
He's my favorite Nets player.
Why?
I scored way more points
than this guy last night.
- What are you talking about?
- Who cares about that?
He's just so much more hard to get.
So, what do you have planned
for the rest of the evening?
Drink this and straight to bed.
- Great!
- Practice. Practice tomorrow.
We don't have practice tomorrow.
He's lying, trust me.
Ideal opportunity to hit the gym tomorrow.
I'm not going to no gym.
I'm drinking all night.
Cheers, baby, cheers.
Ain't no way, it ain't happening.
Cheers. Cheers, ladies.
You're just like a tiny industrious ant!
- Tiny?
- Oh, you're huge!
But so cute I could eat you just up.
- Oh, yeah?
- Yeah! Yeah!
Oh, it's time to go.
Renata.
I didn't do anything, trust me.
A girl came out of nowhere and bit me.
Women don't fall from the sky
and bite people.
In my world, they do.
What else can I tell you? I do not know.
Hey, hey, hey!
Hey.
Trust me, I didn't do anything.
Trust me.
- I trust you.
- Why are you crying if you trust me?
- I don't like this.
- What don't you like?
This. From city to city,
apartment to apartment.
I can't do this anymore.
Do
Do you want me to marry you?
No, Draen.
I don't want you to marry me.
Are you
I don't like this life.
That's my life.
I know it is.
- Maybe in another
- In another what?
Another life.
When there's a little bit less basketball.
There will always be basketball.
Maybe there will be
a little bit less of it.
Warren, Draen.
- Come on in, it's good to see you.
- Good to see you.
Good to see you. Please have a seat.
Draen, my man. It's good to see you.
Please have a seat. Please have a seat.
Well, sorry we're having
this conversation right now.
We're in a restructuring phase
with the team.
Nobody's doubting Draen
as a player, we want him here.
It's fine. We're listening.
I'd like to offer a really good deal.
Two and a half million
per season for four years.
I hope you find that satisfactory.
It would have been,
had you given us an offer
like that six months ago.
Since the season's start,
my client's reputation has increased.
This year, Draen's proven he's among
the Nets' best three players.
That's not just my opinion,
it's statistics.
And we all know Coleman
and Anderson earn more than 2.5.
So, Warren, what is your offer then?
Three million.
- What?
- Nothing.
You can be really tough when you want to.
Are you sure we didn't ask for too much?
We asked for what you deserve.
You'll see.
They'll change their minds
after the All-Star Weekend.
How long are you in town?
I'm flying out tomorrow afternoon. Why?
I thought we could grab
some drinks tonight.
Your drive against the Pistons
should be up there.
You follow basketball?
I even play it.
What?
Girls who play basketball are usually
Never mind.
Nice to meet you, Draen.
- My name is Klara.
- Nice to meet you.
- Same?
- Yeah, thanks.
- Have I seen you before?
- I've definitely seen you.
But we might've crossed paths before.
I'm from Germany,
so we're practically neighbors.
- And what are you doing in Jersey?
- Nothing really.
- Thanks.
- Thanks.
I'm here on holiday.
I'm staying at a hotel
around the corner. You?
I live just a few streets away.
Practically neighbors.
Morning! I've made breakfast.
What?
You're surprised I'm still here?
A bit.
Wow. You really know what
a woman wants to hear.
Have a seat.
So, I've decided you need someone
to take care of you.
I think I'll stay here.
How does that sound?
Sorry?
I'm kidding.
I have to be in Milan by tomorrow night.
Milan? What are you doing there?
I'm modeling in a fashion show.
I thought you were a basketball player.
I have many talents.
Try it.
One of the best guards
in the whole league.
Doesn't make sense, man.
Hey, guys!
What's happening?
They came out with the list for All-Stars.
They ain't picked nobody.
None of us on the team.
- Nobody?
- Nobody.
No, man. I'm sorry, Petro.
- That's bullshit, man.
- Yeah, I know.
Just worry about the rest
of the season. We got a lot of games left.
Let's keep moving.
You know what I mean, keep pushing.
Don't even worry about it.
You should've been there, man.
You don't need to tell me
what I want to hear. It's okay.
I'm not! Look, I have seen
every game this season,
and I'm telling you
you should have been there.
But, look, you'll show them
in the playoffs, right?
Look, you wanna know what I think?
It's because you're European.
He's also European.
You know what's my average per game?
- Twenty?
- 23.4.
And his? 19.8.
Plus, he plays for the stronger team.
That motherfucker ain't European.
- Is he?
- He is. Yes.
Who is it?
Merry Christmas, Dad!
- Draen!
- Where's Mom?
She's here.
But not to call third guard in the league
- I don't know.
- What else is in there?
Draen, did you hear that Aco
- Draen bought half of America.
- I didn't.
I had time at the airport.
Doesn't anyone hear the door?
Lina, please go and see who's at the door.
- Jadranka, open the door.
- Lina is coming.
- I can't believe how much she has grown.
- Oh, I know!
Lina.
Good afternoon.
- Who is it?
- Stojko.
Look at him, he's still growing.
Sit down, kid. Sit, sit.
- Biba, do you have schnapps?
- It's on the table.
- Mr. Manager.
- Yes, just make fun of it.
That's what I wanted to tell you.
Aco is going to be a manager.
- Dad! Assistant manager.
- It's all the same to me.
- Congratulations.
- I spoke to Mirko. We agreed.
- Great!
- My dad is your boss.
Really? I'll wipe the floor with your dad.
Mom, what's with the pancakes?
Wait, Draen, I'm preparing it.
My Stojko, he wants pancakes
with all the cakes.
- Let's go to the basement.
- Slowly, slowly.
Just take it easy. Don't you worry, son.
Sirens go off all the time,
but nothing ever happens. Come on, kids.
You know the drill.
- Come on, you.
- Just take it easy, don't panic.
Don't panic.
Go with the kids, don't panic.
Marko!
- Don't run, Marko.
- Bila!
- You go, and I'll come later.
- Bila, let's go.
I can't, Jole, I'll have
to throw everything away.
Come on, don't mess around. Let's go.
Lina, come on, take Dad's hand.
Neighbor! Are you back?
- Yes, how are you?
- I'm good, I'm good.
Tell me. I heard you had
a fight with Divac. Is that true?
No. No, no.
Good, good. Nice to see you!
Thank you!
Ring-a-ring-a-roses
No problem.
What did you say? For Mateo?
- Sit down, Biserka.
- Don't worry, Miro, it's good.
- Is there any coffee?
- Yes, it's here somewhere.
- For whom?
- Darko.
Hi.
Where were you?
I went for a walk.
Does anyone from the club know
that you're here?
No.
Draen, why did you come?
I don't know.
I don't know,
to see if I can do something to help.
- To see if you're okay.
- You've seen us.
And now you will take your stuff
and you'll take the first flight back.
Understood?
Focus on the basketball.
That's the only way you can help, honey.
Petrovi! Look at the great pass.
New Jersey enters
with Draen Petrovi hitting the jumper.
- He is 27 points in.
- Nice move.
- That's Petrovi.
- Draen with a steal.
- Great job by Petro.
- That's the way he prefers it.
- From way, way downtown.
- Got it!
- Gotta love it.
- That's Petrovi.
Look at the great pass.
- Nice move.
- And Draen Petrovi
Big second half.
- Kenny Anderson.
- Whoa! Draen, what was that?
You okay, bro?
Hey! Can we get some help?
For how long?
- Three weeks. Minimum.
- Fuck!
Well, you'll just have
to miss the season's end.
What's important now
is to keep your stats.
You'll rest over the summer,
and be as good as new for next season.
Warren, they said three weeks,
not three months.
- What are you talking about?
- Poland.
- European Championship qualifiers.
- Out of the question!
We still don't know
where you're gonna play next season.
You can't negotiate if you're all beat up.
I'm sorry, Warren,
but I cannot blow off the national team.
- Sorry.
- You're fucking crazy!
Here I am, worrying about your career,
and you're talking about what?
A game against Slovenia?
Promise me you won't do anything stupid.
Draen!
Okay. I promise.
Pass the ball back!
The water is ice cold!
These Poles are insane.
If you were sweating,
you wouldn't be cold.
Easy there, Draen, it's cold.
You all complain like you're on holiday.
- It's okay, Captain, relax a bit.
- You, Zloo, fuck off.
- Peo.
- What "Peo"?
I'm going to see the kid.
- See you.
- Bye.
Two more beers, please.
Kid!
- Are you still mad?
- I'm not, Aco.
What are you doing in there?
Nothing, I'm tired. Leave me alone.
- Don't lie. Are you with a woman?
- I'm not. Bye!
A little respect for the coach.
Brother!
You've never been normal.
Didn't you say you were
going back to Europe?
I did. I don't know.
You're still drawn to America?
I didn't show everything I have.
I don't want to be remembered
as a guy from Europe.
I'm listening.
Houston.
Powerful team, they have Hakim.
The guards are Maxwell and Smith.
But I'm not sure.
What? Do you fear a repeat of Portland?
- What are they offering?
- Two years.
Short period?
What do you want?
How long do you want to play?
- Forever if possible. So what?
- Draen!
We're not all like you, 32 years
and straight into retirement.
- You're on your third beer.
- Pardon me.
- Any other offers?
- Knicks.
Wait, they also called you?
Good team, they have Ewing.
He looks like an angry owl,
he likes to pass the ball.
Yes, great player.
You know what?
They don't like the Nets.
But imagine if I go there
and score 50 on the Nets.
Oh, what a maniac you are!
I thought they broke you.
There's more.
Boston. They love Europeans.
And young Raa is coming,
so I'd have someone to hang out with.
And Seattle?
How long until we get to the airport?
Too much?
- You're buzzing, aren't you?
- Captain, come on, give me the bag.
- Thank you.
- Come on, Captain.
What is it? What is it? You're buzzing.
Mr. Petrovi!
Can I get an autograph?
- What are you doing here?
- You know we had a game in Warsaw.
I came to surprise you.
This is Hilal. She's on the team with me.
- Nice to meet you. Draen.
- I know, I'm a big fan.
We are off to Munich to see some friends.
You wanna come?
- Now?
- Yeah.
Where are you going?
Sorry, I don't speak Polish.
We're going to Munich.
Your passport expires today.
You can't go to Germany.
You need to get new documents.
I don't understand you.
Do you speak German? English maybe?
- Relax.
- What did you say?
Nothing.
Do you follow sports at all?
Good afternoon.
I apologize on behalf of my colleague.
He didn't realize who he was talking to.
Mr. Petrovi, you were truly amazing
in the Olympics.
- Thank you.
- Truly amazing.
Thank you.
What did I tell you?
Shit!
Can't wait to get there.
What's wrong?
- What's happening?
- No idea.
Some accident, maybe.
I'll go check it.
I can't believe it!
What are you doing here?
Qualifications in Poland.
- And you?
- We were on a little trip.
Trip?
Look at this.
Come with me.
Let's go, one on one.
Draen Petrovi died
in a car crash on June 7th 1993
on a German highway near Ingolstadt.
As a trailblazer for European basketball
in the NBA,
he paved the way for numerous players
from outside the USA.
His love for the game and drive
to excel inspired many young athletes.
This film is a tribute to all the athletes
who pushed boundaries and built bridges.
TERRY PORTER
TEAMMATE, PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
KENNY ANDERSON
TEAMMATE, NEW JERSEY, NETS
VLADE DIVAC
TEAMMATE, YUGOSLAVIA NATIONAL TEAM
He was a hard worker and a perfectionist.
A competitor like no other.
He loved basketball above all
and gave his everything to succeed.
NEVEN SPAHIJA - BASKETBALL COACH
DRAEN'S CHILDHOOD FRIEND
When he was only 15 or 16 years
old, he played for every team lineup.
You won't come across such
a case in basketball history.
There was a gentleness to him.
He would be somebody that you
would be comfortable with your children.
There was a fun
There was an innocence to him,
just a lightness.
But what you didn't see underneath
was the ferocity,
his wanting to compete,
his wanting to be the best.
INSPIRED BY THE LIFE STORY
OF DRAEN PETROVI
- Good afternoon!
- Good afternoon.
Where are you going?
Sorry, I don't speak Polish.
We're going to Munich.
The three of us Munich
Your passport expires today.
You can't go to Germany.
You have to get new documents.
I don't understand you.
Do you speak German? English maybe?
- What happened?
- A Turk, a Hungarian, and a Croat.
Where are they all going together?
Her passport expires today.
They're not going home,
they're going to Germany.
Jacek, don't you know who this is?
Do you follow sports at all?
Come with me.
Good afternoon.
I apologize on behalf of my colleague.
He didn't realize who he was talking to.
Mr. Petrovi, you were truly amazing
in the Olympics.
- Thank you.
- Truly amazing.
Thank you, thank you.
All the best luck to you.
- Thank you. Bye.
- Thanks.
A soccer player?
Oh, my God, Jacek, get back to work!
Good afternoon.
What did I tell you?
Shit!
Can't wait to get there.
Pass it.
Lunch!
Aco, Draen! Come on!
- Don't go, let's have a quick one.
- Quick one?
One on one, you said you would.
I said maybe sometime, not now.
Leave me alone, I'm hungry.
What is it, are you afraid?
Yeah, yeah, I'm afraid of you.
You're such a Rocky!
- Did you wash your hands?
- We did.
Let me see.
- Mom, Draen is pinching me.
- I'm not.
Draen, don't lie.
Why are you pinching Aco?
Because he never wants to play with me.
And you, why don't you want
to play with your brother?
Can't you see that he wants to?
Why should I play with a kid?
He wouldn't score a basket.
I'll score you
Hey! Enough, you two!
You're home?
- Are you tired?
- No.
Come on, sit down.
Aco, is the game today?
Yes, Dad.
- Who are you playing against?
- Drni.
They are in third place,
but I think we're better than them.
Good. Fingers crossed that you win.
Dad, can I go to the game?
Have you practiced the guitar?
Yes.
Don't say you did if you didn't.
Biserka, did he?
- I didn't.
- Then why did you say you did?
Don't lie!
I don't want lies under this roof.
Understood?
Yes, Dad.
Bon apptit.
the president of The Socialist
Federal Republic of Yugoslavia
Draen.
How much did they lose by?
Not much, by ten points.
That's not a close game.
They have a big kid,
he's two and a half meters tall.
He just stands under the basket and waits.
You can't touch him.
And Aco? How did he do?
He was great.
How many did he score?
Twenty-three.
Wasn't it 24?
I missed the free throw.
What do you think?
And how many times did you shoot?
Draen, please don't.
You need to know
how many times you shot.
You said you would count.
Who can count and play
at the same time? Are you crazy?
Come on, guys.
Turn off the lights. It's 10:30 p.m.
Aco, don't be sad.
I'm not sad.
And you, no more talking
when I leave the room.
Good night.
- Good night.
- Good night.
Approximately?
Approximately what?
How many times did you shoot?
You're annoying.
Did you miss a lot of shots?
Not many. Three or four.
Then you're at roughly 80 percent.
You've improved since the year started.
You shoot less and score more.
You do it on purpose.
Bro, you're crazy.
Come on, sleep.
- Aco?
- Yes?
Why do you call me Rocky?
Leave me alone.
Just tell me what it means.
It means that you throw the ball
as if you were throwing rocks.
You have poor ball control.
How? I'm doing the same things you are.
Because you care too much.
You have to relax a little when you shoot.
Now be quiet!
Okay, today we're going to do something
a little more complicated.
We haven't done this before,
but don't worry.
It's very simple.
In one task,
we will combine addition, subtraction,
multiplication, and division. Okay?
Get your notebooks ready.
I'm writing on the blackboard.
Four plus seven.
I'm opening the bracket.
Eighteen divided by three, minus one.
I'm closing the bracket.
Relax, relax. Relax.
Draen!
Come to the board.
Correct.
And the steps?
Are you done, kid?
I'm just going to score 100.
What are you going to score?
Just a moment, I'm at 98!
One hundred.
Listen, kid.
I clean here for ten hours a day.
I have a husband and two children at home.
When I get home,
I have to cook for tomorrow.
I don't have time to wait for you
to score 100, 200, or 500.
I'm sorry, Mrs. Ane.
Here you go.
A shop near the waterfront
makes key copies.
It costs 100 dinars.
Do you have 100 dinars?
Yes.
Make yourself a key
and return this one to me.
Don't make me lose my job. Understood?
Yes.
Wait.
Do you have a wish?
- I do.
- You do?
- May I now?
- You may not.
Come on, now you can. Blow, blow!
Blow!
- Bravo! Bravo!
- I think I got it.
- Now let's do one together.
- Come on.
Come on, Aco, join the picture.
Cheese!
- Bravo.
- You've really caught me
And
here you go.
What are you waiting for? Open it.
I don't know why he is sad.
He hasn't even opened the present yet.
Not good?
Mom says you like that song.
Yes, Dad really struggled to find it.
It's fine.
Did you want another song?
No.
What is it then? Honey?
What is it?
I thought you were going
to enroll me in the basketball club.
- Son!
- Come on, Draen.
You know how time-consuming training is.
It's too early for you to play basketball.
Aco started when he was ten years old.
Aco is different.
Aco is different.
You keep quiet!
- Pass me the plate.
- Why?
- Everyone has different skills, son.
- You always get the bigger slice.
Mom and I are watching you two.
- That's right.
- Aco is talented in sports.
That was clear from the start.
You're better at other things.
That's right.
What am I good at?
- You're good at
- What are you good at?
- Math.
- Music.
Math is similar to music.
That's why you play the guitar.
Math and music are similar.
They follow the same logic.
They work in the same way.
One, two, do, la. Isn't that right?
Don't listen to Dad.
You will be your mother's little artist.
I don't like art.
You will be your mother's
little Paco de Luca.
Understood? Understood?
Bon apptit.
Thank you.
The cake turned out well.
Good morning, honey.
Sit down and eat something.
I have to go.
I'm heading to an early class.
What's with those early classes?
I don't know, I have to go.
Excuse me, Mr. Petrovi.
- Yes?
- I didn't mean to scare you.
Mrs. Skrai, Draen's guitar teacher.
I'm sorry, I didn't
I guess it is still too early for me.
How are you?
Good, thank you.
I wanted to ask
if everything was all right with Draen.
Draen?
He's all right, what do you mean?
He hasn't been in my class for a month.
I was scared that he got sick.
He didn't get sick.
Thank you.
Good day, comrade.
I think he plays really well.
He's been playing the same tune
for six months!
It's not the same, Jole.
Draen!
Are you smoking cigarettes?
No.
What are you doing?
Who are you hanging out with?
Answer the questions!
I'm training.
You're what?
I'm doing basketball training.
What basketball?
Are you crazy?
Who do you think you are? Kreo osi?
When you were a child, you were born with
with
- What is it called?
- Subluxation.
Yes, hip subluxation.
He's doing basketball training.
You are lucky you can walk.
Now you will do as I say.
No more basketball. Are we clear?
Do you hear me? Say something!
Shut your mouth when I'm talking to you!
Where are you going?
You can't tell him that.
- What can't I tell him?
- You can't tell him that!
Who is going to tell him if I don't?
- Who?
- Why do you keep telling him that?
Did I make that up?
That's what the doctor said, Biserka.
Jole, if the child wants
to play basketball, let him play.
Bila, a boy can't do whatever he wants.
Leave him alone!
What time do the classes end?
1:30 p.m.
I'm not lying.
Come home by 2:00 p.m. at the latest.
Draen!
Tomorrow we will enroll you
in the basketball club ibenka.
Yes!
ibenka!
Let's go!
Five shots each
and then go to the two-step.
Come on, Lokas, faster! Faster!
Watch how you handle the ball!
Come on, come on!
Come on, move!
Five shots each
and let's go to the two-step!
Come on, Petrovi, make it softer, softer!
You're not throwing rocks!
Fuck it, come on!
You need to relax. You need to relax.
Okay, now do the two-step, come on!
- Sit down for a moment.
- Training!
Oh, my God.
Draen, take an orange!
Come on!
- Head up! Head up!
- Come on!
- Head up!
- Come on! Come on!
Well done! Back to defense!
Bravo!
I can't believe you got through
all three of them.
You were great!
What's up, honey? Why are you sad?
That was the only basket I scored.
You only missed two or three shots.
If he had let you play more,
you would have scored more.
You'll see when the older ones
get promoted to cadets.
He will put you in the top five.
You think he's going to put me in?
Who if not you?
Maybe Klari, Gulin, Spahija?
Spahija? Is he better than you?
- I don't think so.
- Of course he's not.
You are the best.
They just don't know it yet.
But your mother knows!
Now we'll tell Dad!
Jole, where are you?
Good afternoon.
Good afternoon.
Draen, how was it?
It was great. They won.
- Bila, this is Coach Novosel.
- I know who he is.
- Biserka, nice to meet you.
- Mirko, nice to meet you.
Jole, you didn't even offer him a drink.
Oh, my God.
- Here's something homemade.
- Thank you.
As I told your husband,
I'm here for Aleksandar.
Club ibenka accepted our offer.
We want your son to be a Cibona junior.
I'll be back.
Aco is only 16 years old.
I know you're surprised,
but it's the best move for his career.
Trust me.
What about school?
He must finish high school.
That's our club's rule.
What if he doesn't make it in basketball?
As far as we are concerned,
he can continue his education
in addition to his training.
But he has to train.
Do you know who that is?
Don't be mad. You should be happy for me.
I'll see you in the summer.
And for Christmas.
I don't care when we'll see each other.
Then why are you angry?
I'm angry because you're leaving.
So what?
You didn't teach me how to play.
You are such a jerk!
You're a jerk.
Come on.
What are his chances?
Your son is very talented.
We have been watching him for over a year.
He has everything he needs
to become a real player.
I can't promise you that will happen.
What can you promise us?
He will get a chance.
I don't know. What do you think?
I think we should let him go.
Coach Novosel, are you up for a toast
with some homemade cherry brandy?
- Thanks, but I don't drink alcohol.
- Me neither.
Someone has to. For Aco.
For Aco.
I'm going to get the kids.
I'll be right back.
- Draen! Aco!
- Don't you worry. He is in safe hands.
Cibona is a serious club.
- I know.
- Mirko, Jole! You have to see this!
Come on, try.
Check out this transition.
How old is the younger one?
Eleven.
He is five and a half years younger.
- He's good.
- I know.
Good day, everyone. Thank you for coming.
You all know why we are here today.
And that reason is with us today.
Let me introduce you
to Cibona's new player.
Draen Petrovi!
Thank you, thank you.
Do you have any questions?
Draen, you were wanted
by all the strongest teams
in Yugoslavia.
Partizan, among others.
Why Cibona?
Good afternoon.
I decided to play for Cibona
because my brother plays here.
You know that.
Zagreb is not that far from ibenik.
I will be able to see my parents more.
I enrolled in university here.
We'll see how that will work.
What do you expect from the first season?
I expect to fit into the team well,
to fight for the title
in the league and in the cup,
and to go as far as possible in Europe.
Draen, the whole of Yugoslavia
is still talking
about that notorious match
between ibenka and Bosna.
Your title was revoked
at the negotiating table.
Still think you got ripped off?
Let's steer clear
of such awkward questions.
The boy will get suspended,
and the season hasn't even started yet.
We should have beaten them by ten points.
I think we should have beaten them
by ten points.
In the end, that one free throw decides.
When you're winning by ten points,
not even God can rip you off.
Excuse me! Thank you, thank you.
- Juice for the girls! Here you go.
- Thank you.
Guys, we have some news.
My love, show them.
Congratulations!
You're not inviting us to the party?
The wedding isn't until summer.
We're counting on you two coming.
What about me?
Petrovi!
Not you, we're looking for the junior.
Come with us to the bar.
He can't wait.
Watch yourself.
I'm going to tell your mom.
I came from ibenik.
Okay, we'll teach you.
- Can I have a beer?
- Of course.
- No, no. This is on us.
- No, no.
Thank you.
You paid for the drink for nothing.
Behind me. Booth, jeans, miniskirt.
To the right of the booth,
tits like watermelons.
You can't miss her.
- So?
- What?
Both are beautiful.
What? Both are beautiful?
What's the matter with you?
Maybe he's not into girls.
Come on then. Do something.
Slow down, guys, I just got here.
I don't know anyone yet.
Listen, Draen,
I know you are a complicated soul.
Layered.
But only you
and the two of us know that.
Possibly your mom.
For them, you are a Cibona player.
- The best Cibona player.
- Yes!
I haven't played a single game yet.
What do they know?
They heard you were the best.
Someone told them.
They read it somewhere.
All you need to do now
is go and stand there.
Go and stand there?
- Go and stand there.
- Go and stand there.
You're not scared, are you?
- Me?
- No, me. Come on.
- Draen Petrovi?
- Yes.
- Mirna. Nice to meet you.
- Nice to meet you.
Kid, are you okay?
- So, how was it?
- Where?
What do you mean "where"?
With "watermelons."
You mean with Mirna?
She knows a lot about basketball.
What are you looking at?
That's a three-pointer.
Now they're introducing it here.
It's been in the US for four years.
That's for me, not you.
And you'll score?
Come on, let's gather around.
All right, guys. Thank you.
Thank you very much.
So
for those who don't follow basketball,
this is the three-point line.
It's already been introduced in America.
Next season,
it will also be introduced here.
We'll train as if
it was part of the game today.
When they introduce the three-pointer,
everyone will be shooting it.
We have to be the bomb.
- Understood?
- Understood.
- Petrovis, understood?
- Understood.
Come on, warm up. Come on!
Yes?
I wanted to ask you
if I could stay after training.
Why would you stay?
To train.
Draen, I'll crush you today,
you won't want to train anymore.
- Okay, but can I stay?
- Go.
He's crazy.
And now a week in Kavkaz.
- Let's go, one on one.
- I can't, I have plans.
- Ten minutes, come on.
- I'm telling you, no.
Pussy!
I don't play with kids.
Draen, will you sign my basketball?
Yes.
- What's with the hair?
- I took my mom's big curlers.
- Why?
- I wanted to look like you.
Thank you.
You know what? Come with me.
Great!
UNSTOPPABLE DRAEN
PETROVIC DOMINATES AGAIN
What do you expect from the match?
We're gonna destroy them.
Go, go, Cibosi!
CIBONA IS THE CHAMPION OF YUGOSLAVIA!
Oh, my God!
- Mom.
- It looks good, very tidy.
I thought you were coming tomorrow.
You thought? I wanted to surprise you.
- You did surprise me.
- Well, I did.
Brush your teeth, I'll prepare breakfast.
Draen, Draen!
Enjoy your meal.
Your girlfriend is a wonderful singer.
I said that your girlfriend
is a wonderful singer.
- What is it? You think I don't know?
- What?
I understand it all, honey,
but you're a star now.
And she is a star too.
- What's wrong with that?
- "What's wrong with that?"
A lot of things. Too little time.
When do you even get to see each other?
- Mom!
- And who will follow whom?
But do you know what I want to know?
What?
Who grabbed whose attention first?
I still love you
Let him watch.
- First, she grabbed me.
- What?
And then I grabbed her a bit.
Come on, Draen,
I'm not interested in that.
- Well, you asked.
- Shut up and eat.
Okay.
Draen!
- Can we get an autograph?
- Yes.
And maybe a photo?
- Renata, take a photo of us.
- I can't.
Come on, don't mess around. Come on.
Cheese!
- Is that your friend?
- Who, Renata? Do you like her?
Renata, come on, Draen wants to meet you.
I really have to go.
- Come to the game.
- What game?
On Saturday against Olimpija.
Bring your friend.
- Just say that Draen left the tickets.
- You're so funny!
Love at first sight, huh?
- See you.
- Okay.
He likes her!
You gotta be kidding me!
They brought some kids.
My God!
Kid, you're nuts.
Is it my fault they got suspended?
We won't take it out on kids!
Are we going to let them beat us?
We'll play, we'll win,
but we won't humiliate them.
Well, you certainly won't do anything.
Don't be jealous.
- You're mentally disturbed.
- Fuck off!
- What did you say?
- Fuck off!
What did you say? No, no, no.
Hey, hey, calm down. What the fuck?
Ask him what's wrong with him.
- I just want to break the record.
- What record?
Kora, 99 points.
- Who in their right mind knows about that?
- Quiet!
Really, how do you know about that?
Everyone knows that, 1964.
1964?
Okay, and what do you think about that?
If Draen wants to break the record,
let him break it.
You will get the ball from me.
Aco?
Let him break the record.
Okay. Let him break it.
Anzulovi is passing the ball
to Draen. Draen scores!
Draen is already at 18 points.
It's still very early in the game.
The scoring spree kicked off
from the very start.
A brilliant drive down the midline
and another free throw.
Ui, Cvjetianin, Naki,
and the others watch calmly
as Draen scores 27 points.
The saga continues.
It's not even halftime yet,
and we're already at 49.
Draen's new three-pointer, 52 points.
Draen aims to score 100 points himself,
and he succeeds.
HOME - GUESHe stopped at 112. The final whistle.
DRAEN FILLED UP THE HOOP
See you in the upcoming games
of the national championship.
Best regards from Dom sportova. Goodbye.
- She left the university building.
- Follow her!
It's all good, she's going to the caf.
- Which caf?
- The first one, around the corner.
- Thank you, bye.
- Bye.
Renata, Renata, hi!
We met the other day
in front of the university. Draen.
Hi.
Do you want to grab a coffee with me?
I just had coffee.
- Are you following me?
- No.
Okay, maybe a little.
Cake?
No, I have a lot of studying to do.
Tomorrow then?
I don't think so.
I have to go. Bye.
You didn't tell me how you liked the game.
I don't really watch basketball.
I scored 112 points. Did you see that?
Yes.
That was strange.
I think it was romantic.
- "Romantic"?
- Well, I did it for you.
Please.
And what's wrong with our Draen?
Has no one ever said "no" to you?
Yes, a few times,
but I didn't take it seriously.
No. No, no, and don't follow me.
Can you just tell me what I'm doing wrong?
Please! Everyone knows
that you're with that singer.
But that's not true. Trust me.
Just read the newspaper.
Both Cibona and Real have seven wins
and three losses
in the European Super League.
Fifteen to sixteen thousand spectators
arrived in the capital of Greece
to encourage Cibona in their endeavors
to climb to the top of basketball
in Europe.
IS THE LOVE STORY OVER?
Robinson is jumping. utura, of course.
- Hi.
- Hello.
utura leads Cibona's offense.
Cibona is off to a good start.
- You guys are watching it, too?
- Of course, everyone is watching.
- Go, go
- Cibosi!
Draen Petrovi.
A brilliant play by Draen Petrovi.
Jackson.
Robinson fails.
Counterattack by Draen Petrovi.
Aleksandar Petrovi caught the last ball,
and embraced it
as a treasured keepsake from the game.
Go, go, Cibosi!
NO.1 PLAYER IN EUROPE!
Cibona outplayed Real and deservedly
brought the big trophy to Zagreb.
It's so good to see you again
To put my hands on your shoulders
- How was it?
- It was great for me.
- What's going on?
- Girls, Draen is here.
- Which Draen?
- Which one?
- Can I get an autograph?
- Yes.
- Hi, congratulations!
- Thank you.
What are you doing here?
I'm here to brag to you.
I don't know if you heard.
I heard.
Maybe we could grab that coffee now?
Now I'm going home for lunch.
Maybe I can walk you home.
Okay.
- Draen!
- Hey.
Can't people be a little more discreet?
You'll get used to it over time.
I mean
You get used to it over time.
You are very self-assured.
Listen. I have been
the best basketball player
in the country for the last two years.
Now it turns out that I am also
the best player in Europe.
I want to be the best in the world.
You can't become the best
if you don't believe in yourself.
But I'm modest.
Okay, can you talk about anything else?
- Like what?
- I don't know.
Is there something else
that interests you?
Something you're good at?
I can play the guitar.
- Come on, don't mess around.
- Seriously, I played in a band.
I'm going home, I'll be back.
If this isn't true,
you'll never see me again.
Here you go.
I haven't played in a long time.
You said you played in a band.
I went to music school.
Well, are you coming?
Wait.
- Aren't you supposed to be happy?
- Happy?
You won.
Eighteen points, that's not so bad.
You're an expert now?
No, but I know that
only two players scored more.
And do you know how many shots I missed?
- The exact number?
- Eleven shots. Five of them were open.
When you add up those 18 points,
that's under 50 percent.
Luckily, they stopped passing me the ball.
Otherwise, we would have lost.
What are you laughing at?
I'm sorry.
- I'm sorry. Come on, let's go.
- What's funny?
We would have lost the championship
if they kept passing me the ball.
Reservation for Petrovi.
- Renata's here.
- Good evening.
How many years of university
do you have left?
- Three years, if everything goes well.
- Three?
What are you planning to do next?
It's difficult to say now, but
I can work in a hospital,
in an ENT clinic,
as a speech therapist at a school,
possibly in a nursing home.
That's nice.
Renata would prefer to work with children.
That's nice!
Draen, you have food all over you.
I'll get straight to the point.
Do you know what I want to know?
What do you like about my Draen?
I'm asking because he really likes you.
You think?
One hundred percent,
a mother always knows these things.
- Well, he is very good to me.
- He is?
He's pure.
Like a child, but in a good way.
And can he be stubborn?
Well, sometimes.
He gets that from me.
Tell me, do you cook?
I am trying.
You're trying.
Okay.
And basketball?
Well
I like it, yes.
You like it.
I'm asking you because
basketball is his life.
That will always be his priority.
This doesn't mean that he is selfish.
That's just the way it is.
And we are all here just to support him.
I don't know what you want me to say.
I don't want anything, honey.
I don't know if you know
that athletes are not
in one place for long.
You're scared of what will happen
if he leaves Zagreb.
Not "if" he leaves, honey,
but "when" he leaves.
I'm wondering, when he leaves,
will you go with him?
We haven't talked about that yet.
But if he were to ask you, would you go?
We have them!
In defense, we must be aggressive,
but without stupid fouls!
We don't want them to score easy points!
In the attack, we'll go slowly,
until the time runs out if necessary.
We'll guard the ball,
waiting for an open shot.
Okay? Okay.
Did you understand anything?
Just grab the ball and play.
Let's go!
I'VE COME TO WIN IT ALL!
REAL WINS AGAIN
PETROVIC, 63 POINTS
- Want to grab a drink?
- Yes.
I've played with selfish players,
but this one wouldn't pass the ball
even if his life depended on it.
But we won.
- How did I play?
- Terribly.
- Are you ready?
- Are we in a hurry?
- I have to go home and pack.
- See you!
Come on, we won't be long.
I promise.
Come on, come on. Yes!
- Did you learn everything?
- So-so.
But I have time.
I'll study some more on the plane.
And when will you come back to me?
I was thinking of staying
a few days longer.
My sister is celebrating her birthday.
And will you miss me?
I miss you already.
We still have time for coffee.
Good. Let's go.
Here you go.
See you.
- Hello.
- Hello.
Have a nice trip.
Have a nice flight.
Hello, Mr. Petrovi.
My name is Warren LeGarie.
- I believe you were told of my arrival.
- Yeah, I know.
From the USA, right?
- You have time to grab a coffee?
- Sure, let's go.
- Sure we don't need a translator?
- It's okay.
I learned some English in school.
I've been working as an NBA agent
for almost ten years.
I believe your future is in the US.
Players from Europe don't play in the NBA.
That's not quite true.
Georgi Glouchkov, Sasha Volkov.
Mariulionis, Fernando Martn. Yeah.
Four players, and all four on the bench.
Did you play against those four?
Yeah, I did.
Then you know you're better than them.
You've become too big for this club,
and for this continent.
You don't have to tell me anything now.
Just think about it.
You can spend your best years here,
winning titles you've already won.
Or you can be remembered as a trailblazer
of European basketball in the US.
Hey!
Hey!
Wait, wait!
Close your eyes,
I have a surprise for you!
Okay.
- May I open them?
- Yes, yes.
Aco! Jadranka!
Nice to see you!
- Aren't you playing this season?
- We took some sick leave.
- Sick leave?
- Come on, come here.
We can go to the museum tomorrow.
- Look at him.
- Of course, yes.
- Have you been to a nice exhibition?
- Something is always happening here.
- I missed mom's paticada the most.
- I'll tell her you enjoyed it.
He will tell her himself,
they are on the phone every day anyway.
- Still?
- So what? There's only one mom.
Are you sleeping here tonight?
- We got a hotel room.
- There's plenty of room here.
No, no, the doctor said it's not good
to sleep on the couch.
Doctor?
- Wait, he still doesn't get it?
- What?
What don't I get?
- No?
- Yes, yes.
- For how long?
- Almost five months.
And you can already see it!
It just means that the baby
will get bigger than 190 centimeters.
- Can I touch it?
- Of course. It doesn't bite.
Look at him!
Congratulations, uncle!
Hey.
- What are you thinking about?
- Nothing.
Do you know what "trailblazer" means?
Aren't they the ones who drafted you?
They are, but what does that word mean?
Like a leader.
Someone who is always looking
for something new.
- Not bad.
- Why?
Just asking.
We're down by six,
but there's plenty of time.
Buck, Kev, Jerome, no easy points,
make them earn it from the line.
Terry, Clyde, expect some three-pointers,
then crash the offensive glass. Got it?
- On three. Two, three, Blazers!
- Blazers!
You promised me 25 minutes
per game, Warren!
If that's not lying, I don't know what is.
For the 100th time,
I only told you what they told me.
Then they lied to you.
Draen, work hard, wait for your chance.
You're new to the club.
- I've been here for six months, Warren!
- I'll be late to a meeting.
You can't just turn up unannounced
whenever you feel like it.
I see you're bulking up, that's good.
Dammit, nobody in their right mind
changes a winning team.
It's not fair of you to complain
because your team is doing well.
Susie, set up an appointment
with Draen for next week.
Everything's gonna be fine,
try to be more patient.
How does Thursday sound?
Fragile peace in Yugoslavia
is more fragile than ever.
And the president of Yugoslavia's
largest republic is warning his people
to be prepared for war.
The tension between Croatians
and minority Serbs has become intense
with daily claims
and counterclaims of murders.
The Croatian government
today predicted a major attack
within the next few days
by federal army units
aiming to take control
of Serbian communities.
The head
of the federal presidential council,
himself a Croat, said that the army
is back under political control...
- What are you doing?
- I'm calling home.
Draen, what time is it?
I don't know, half past four.
And what time is it over there?
Hey, everyone is in Zagreb
and everyone is safe.
We'll call them in the morning.
- Have you heard from Grandma Zorka?
- I did, honey.
And uncle and aunt?
I did, everyone is fine,
Draen, don't you worry.
Mom, don't lie to me, please,
I saw that these guys have rifles.
You know the media always exaggerates.
I should have been there.
Draen, don't talk nonsense,
you're more important there.
I'm on the bench!
So what, he played you!
Yes, for seven minutes.
I'd rather he hadn't played me at all.
- They don't even know, man.
- You think he might've overslept or
Maybe, but it's not usually something
that he would do.
Gentlemen, if we're gonna make the flight
All right, all right, give it a minute.
Not good.
Twisted his ankle.
Twisted his ankle?
You got to be fucking kidding me!
- All right, let's go.
- Let's go, guys! Everybody on the bus!
Need to put a step on it.
All right, listen up.
Drexler's out.
So I'm gonna need everybody
to step up tonight.
We're gonna be just fine.
Derek, you'll play the two-spot.
I expect a big night from you.
That means we're thin on the one.
Danny, I'm counting on you.
All right. Keys to the game.
Defense. Run the floor.
Easy buckets, easy buckets, easy buckets!
Fine, I can understand choosing Drexler
and Porter instead of me.
Those are great players.
I can understand him putting in
Danny Ainge, but Danny Young?
Who the fuck is Danny Young?
I thought you got along with Young.
I get along with everyone
from the club. So what?
I don't know.
It sounds like you're unhappy
with all of that.
Do you even believe in me?
Do I believe in what?
- That you are better than others?
- Yes.
I don't know. You tell me.
Are you better than others?
Yes, I am.
- Are you better than Young?
- Yes.
- And better than Ainge?
- Yes.
And better than What's his name, Drexler?
I can be if given a chance.
What about Jordan?
Favorite trophy.
That's my trophy.
We carry it everywhere we go.
You say that was
the happiest day of your life.
Yes.
Then why all this?
It's stronger than me.
I have to go pack.
- Thank you.
- Hi.
Take care.
Call me when you arrive.
Please, you don't have an appointment.
Mr. LeGarie is busy.
I want to be traded.
- Sit down, Draen. Susie.
- No. No, I want...
I know you're unhappy,
but this is no way to talk...
I don't want to be
in this club anymore, okay?
You're my agent
and you're supposed to do something.
- Or should I look for someone else?
- Where do you think you are?
My mind's made up.
I'm not listening to you anymore.
You either help me to get out of here
or I'll get out on my own.
Nobody can just up and leave.
You have a contract.
- Yeah.
- We're talking about millions of dollars.
And you think that will stop me, hmm?
Have you met any other players?
Yes, most of them.
What are they like?
Do you hang out with them,
go out to dinners?
No. They don't have time.
They play three to four matches per week.
This cake is so good!
And do you travel with Draen?
Have you been to New York?
And L.A.? Have you been there?
I went to L.A., we went to Disneyland.
I didn't go to New York.
But we plan on going.
And what's Portland like?
Basketball? You're lucky you can walk.
You need to relax a little when shooting.
You are the best.
Only they don't know it yet.
Has no one ever said "no" to you?
Petrovi.
Draen Petrovi.
Draen Petrovi scored 24 points.
The biggest achievement for Cibona
and one of the greatest achievements
in Croatian sports lately.
Draen Petrovi.
Renata?
Renata?
It's Draen.
- Hello?
- Hi.
- Hi.
- What are you doing?
Nothing, I'm reading something.
- You?
- Nothing.
- Is everything all right?
- It is, it is.
I have to tell you something.
We're going to New Jersey.
They finally traded me.
- New Jersey?
- Yes.
Renata, are you there?
I'm here, yes.
Draen, you're off to a great start
here with the Nets.
With double figures from game
to game, you seem reborn.
Do you have a message
to your former employers in Portland?
Portland? Where's that?
Did I even play there?
No, I'm just kidding.
I think the time I spent
in Portland was valuable to me.
I think I mentally matured there
and adapted
to the American style of basketball.
But yes, I'm glad I don't have
to petition to Porter
to have pity and pass
a few balls to me, so
- The last round is on the house, guys.
- Thank you, appreciate it.
- Drazen.
- It's not Drazen, it's Draen.
- Draen.
- Draen.
Like this! It's easy!
- Draen.
- Yes.
Hey, Petro, I think this bunny likes you.
Of course I like him.
He's my favorite Nets player.
Why?
I scored way more points
than this guy last night.
- What are you talking about?
- Who cares about that?
He's just so much more hard to get.
So, what do you have planned
for the rest of the evening?
Drink this and straight to bed.
- Great!
- Practice. Practice tomorrow.
We don't have practice tomorrow.
He's lying, trust me.
Ideal opportunity to hit the gym tomorrow.
I'm not going to no gym.
I'm drinking all night.
Cheers, baby, cheers.
Ain't no way, it ain't happening.
Cheers. Cheers, ladies.
You're just like a tiny industrious ant!
- Tiny?
- Oh, you're huge!
But so cute I could eat you just up.
- Oh, yeah?
- Yeah! Yeah!
Oh, it's time to go.
Renata.
I didn't do anything, trust me.
A girl came out of nowhere and bit me.
Women don't fall from the sky
and bite people.
In my world, they do.
What else can I tell you? I do not know.
Hey, hey, hey!
Hey.
Trust me, I didn't do anything.
Trust me.
- I trust you.
- Why are you crying if you trust me?
- I don't like this.
- What don't you like?
This. From city to city,
apartment to apartment.
I can't do this anymore.
Do
Do you want me to marry you?
No, Draen.
I don't want you to marry me.
Are you
I don't like this life.
That's my life.
I know it is.
- Maybe in another
- In another what?
Another life.
When there's a little bit less basketball.
There will always be basketball.
Maybe there will be
a little bit less of it.
Warren, Draen.
- Come on in, it's good to see you.
- Good to see you.
Good to see you. Please have a seat.
Draen, my man. It's good to see you.
Please have a seat. Please have a seat.
Well, sorry we're having
this conversation right now.
We're in a restructuring phase
with the team.
Nobody's doubting Draen
as a player, we want him here.
It's fine. We're listening.
I'd like to offer a really good deal.
Two and a half million
per season for four years.
I hope you find that satisfactory.
It would have been,
had you given us an offer
like that six months ago.
Since the season's start,
my client's reputation has increased.
This year, Draen's proven he's among
the Nets' best three players.
That's not just my opinion,
it's statistics.
And we all know Coleman
and Anderson earn more than 2.5.
So, Warren, what is your offer then?
Three million.
- What?
- Nothing.
You can be really tough when you want to.
Are you sure we didn't ask for too much?
We asked for what you deserve.
You'll see.
They'll change their minds
after the All-Star Weekend.
How long are you in town?
I'm flying out tomorrow afternoon. Why?
I thought we could grab
some drinks tonight.
Your drive against the Pistons
should be up there.
You follow basketball?
I even play it.
What?
Girls who play basketball are usually
Never mind.
Nice to meet you, Draen.
- My name is Klara.
- Nice to meet you.
- Same?
- Yeah, thanks.
- Have I seen you before?
- I've definitely seen you.
But we might've crossed paths before.
I'm from Germany,
so we're practically neighbors.
- And what are you doing in Jersey?
- Nothing really.
- Thanks.
- Thanks.
I'm here on holiday.
I'm staying at a hotel
around the corner. You?
I live just a few streets away.
Practically neighbors.
Morning! I've made breakfast.
What?
You're surprised I'm still here?
A bit.
Wow. You really know what
a woman wants to hear.
Have a seat.
So, I've decided you need someone
to take care of you.
I think I'll stay here.
How does that sound?
Sorry?
I'm kidding.
I have to be in Milan by tomorrow night.
Milan? What are you doing there?
I'm modeling in a fashion show.
I thought you were a basketball player.
I have many talents.
Try it.
One of the best guards
in the whole league.
Doesn't make sense, man.
Hey, guys!
What's happening?
They came out with the list for All-Stars.
They ain't picked nobody.
None of us on the team.
- Nobody?
- Nobody.
No, man. I'm sorry, Petro.
- That's bullshit, man.
- Yeah, I know.
Just worry about the rest
of the season. We got a lot of games left.
Let's keep moving.
You know what I mean, keep pushing.
Don't even worry about it.
You should've been there, man.
You don't need to tell me
what I want to hear. It's okay.
I'm not! Look, I have seen
every game this season,
and I'm telling you
you should have been there.
But, look, you'll show them
in the playoffs, right?
Look, you wanna know what I think?
It's because you're European.
He's also European.
You know what's my average per game?
- Twenty?
- 23.4.
And his? 19.8.
Plus, he plays for the stronger team.
That motherfucker ain't European.
- Is he?
- He is. Yes.
Who is it?
Merry Christmas, Dad!
- Draen!
- Where's Mom?
She's here.
But not to call third guard in the league
- I don't know.
- What else is in there?
Draen, did you hear that Aco
- Draen bought half of America.
- I didn't.
I had time at the airport.
Doesn't anyone hear the door?
Lina, please go and see who's at the door.
- Jadranka, open the door.
- Lina is coming.
- I can't believe how much she has grown.
- Oh, I know!
Lina.
Good afternoon.
- Who is it?
- Stojko.
Look at him, he's still growing.
Sit down, kid. Sit, sit.
- Biba, do you have schnapps?
- It's on the table.
- Mr. Manager.
- Yes, just make fun of it.
That's what I wanted to tell you.
Aco is going to be a manager.
- Dad! Assistant manager.
- It's all the same to me.
- Congratulations.
- I spoke to Mirko. We agreed.
- Great!
- My dad is your boss.
Really? I'll wipe the floor with your dad.
Mom, what's with the pancakes?
Wait, Draen, I'm preparing it.
My Stojko, he wants pancakes
with all the cakes.
- Let's go to the basement.
- Slowly, slowly.
Just take it easy. Don't you worry, son.
Sirens go off all the time,
but nothing ever happens. Come on, kids.
You know the drill.
- Come on, you.
- Just take it easy, don't panic.
Don't panic.
Go with the kids, don't panic.
Marko!
- Don't run, Marko.
- Bila!
- You go, and I'll come later.
- Bila, let's go.
I can't, Jole, I'll have
to throw everything away.
Come on, don't mess around. Let's go.
Lina, come on, take Dad's hand.
Neighbor! Are you back?
- Yes, how are you?
- I'm good, I'm good.
Tell me. I heard you had
a fight with Divac. Is that true?
No. No, no.
Good, good. Nice to see you!
Thank you!
Ring-a-ring-a-roses
No problem.
What did you say? For Mateo?
- Sit down, Biserka.
- Don't worry, Miro, it's good.
- Is there any coffee?
- Yes, it's here somewhere.
- For whom?
- Darko.
Hi.
Where were you?
I went for a walk.
Does anyone from the club know
that you're here?
No.
Draen, why did you come?
I don't know.
I don't know,
to see if I can do something to help.
- To see if you're okay.
- You've seen us.
And now you will take your stuff
and you'll take the first flight back.
Understood?
Focus on the basketball.
That's the only way you can help, honey.
Petrovi! Look at the great pass.
New Jersey enters
with Draen Petrovi hitting the jumper.
- He is 27 points in.
- Nice move.
- That's Petrovi.
- Draen with a steal.
- Great job by Petro.
- That's the way he prefers it.
- From way, way downtown.
- Got it!
- Gotta love it.
- That's Petrovi.
Look at the great pass.
- Nice move.
- And Draen Petrovi
Big second half.
- Kenny Anderson.
- Whoa! Draen, what was that?
You okay, bro?
Hey! Can we get some help?
For how long?
- Three weeks. Minimum.
- Fuck!
Well, you'll just have
to miss the season's end.
What's important now
is to keep your stats.
You'll rest over the summer,
and be as good as new for next season.
Warren, they said three weeks,
not three months.
- What are you talking about?
- Poland.
- European Championship qualifiers.
- Out of the question!
We still don't know
where you're gonna play next season.
You can't negotiate if you're all beat up.
I'm sorry, Warren,
but I cannot blow off the national team.
- Sorry.
- You're fucking crazy!
Here I am, worrying about your career,
and you're talking about what?
A game against Slovenia?
Promise me you won't do anything stupid.
Draen!
Okay. I promise.
Pass the ball back!
The water is ice cold!
These Poles are insane.
If you were sweating,
you wouldn't be cold.
Easy there, Draen, it's cold.
You all complain like you're on holiday.
- It's okay, Captain, relax a bit.
- You, Zloo, fuck off.
- Peo.
- What "Peo"?
I'm going to see the kid.
- See you.
- Bye.
Two more beers, please.
Kid!
- Are you still mad?
- I'm not, Aco.
What are you doing in there?
Nothing, I'm tired. Leave me alone.
- Don't lie. Are you with a woman?
- I'm not. Bye!
A little respect for the coach.
Brother!
You've never been normal.
Didn't you say you were
going back to Europe?
I did. I don't know.
You're still drawn to America?
I didn't show everything I have.
I don't want to be remembered
as a guy from Europe.
I'm listening.
Houston.
Powerful team, they have Hakim.
The guards are Maxwell and Smith.
But I'm not sure.
What? Do you fear a repeat of Portland?
- What are they offering?
- Two years.
Short period?
What do you want?
How long do you want to play?
- Forever if possible. So what?
- Draen!
We're not all like you, 32 years
and straight into retirement.
- You're on your third beer.
- Pardon me.
- Any other offers?
- Knicks.
Wait, they also called you?
Good team, they have Ewing.
He looks like an angry owl,
he likes to pass the ball.
Yes, great player.
You know what?
They don't like the Nets.
But imagine if I go there
and score 50 on the Nets.
Oh, what a maniac you are!
I thought they broke you.
There's more.
Boston. They love Europeans.
And young Raa is coming,
so I'd have someone to hang out with.
And Seattle?
How long until we get to the airport?
Too much?
- You're buzzing, aren't you?
- Captain, come on, give me the bag.
- Thank you.
- Come on, Captain.
What is it? What is it? You're buzzing.
Mr. Petrovi!
Can I get an autograph?
- What are you doing here?
- You know we had a game in Warsaw.
I came to surprise you.
This is Hilal. She's on the team with me.
- Nice to meet you. Draen.
- I know, I'm a big fan.
We are off to Munich to see some friends.
You wanna come?
- Now?
- Yeah.
Where are you going?
Sorry, I don't speak Polish.
We're going to Munich.
Your passport expires today.
You can't go to Germany.
You need to get new documents.
I don't understand you.
Do you speak German? English maybe?
- Relax.
- What did you say?
Nothing.
Do you follow sports at all?
Good afternoon.
I apologize on behalf of my colleague.
He didn't realize who he was talking to.
Mr. Petrovi, you were truly amazing
in the Olympics.
- Thank you.
- Truly amazing.
Thank you.
What did I tell you?
Shit!
Can't wait to get there.
What's wrong?
- What's happening?
- No idea.
Some accident, maybe.
I'll go check it.
I can't believe it!
What are you doing here?
Qualifications in Poland.
- And you?
- We were on a little trip.
Trip?
Look at this.
Come with me.
Let's go, one on one.
Draen Petrovi died
in a car crash on June 7th 1993
on a German highway near Ingolstadt.
As a trailblazer for European basketball
in the NBA,
he paved the way for numerous players
from outside the USA.
His love for the game and drive
to excel inspired many young athletes.
This film is a tribute to all the athletes
who pushed boundaries and built bridges.
TERRY PORTER
TEAMMATE, PORTLAND TRAIL BLAZERS
KENNY ANDERSON
TEAMMATE, NEW JERSEY, NETS
VLADE DIVAC
TEAMMATE, YUGOSLAVIA NATIONAL TEAM
He was a hard worker and a perfectionist.
A competitor like no other.
He loved basketball above all
and gave his everything to succeed.
NEVEN SPAHIJA - BASKETBALL COACH
DRAEN'S CHILDHOOD FRIEND
When he was only 15 or 16 years
old, he played for every team lineup.
You won't come across such
a case in basketball history.
There was a gentleness to him.
He would be somebody that you
would be comfortable with your children.
There was a fun
There was an innocence to him,
just a lightness.
But what you didn't see underneath
was the ferocity,
his wanting to compete,
his wanting to be the best.