Coach Antonio Pérez was the first professional coach I ever had. Being new to the professional game and FIBA, he did a fantastic job of teaching me the concepts and skills necessary to succeed. He used basketball to build our relationship and it became clear he cared about me as a person and wanted to see me do well. When I struggled as a player he encouraged me saying that I was doing the right things and working in the correct way. When I succeeded as a player, he was authentic in his happiness for me but also reminded me that I could reach another level. I trusted him because of the time he invested in me and the work we did. Coach Antonio showed a great balance of encouragement and discipline all while teaching his ideas about basketball. He understands that basketball is built around relationships and took the time to develop ours. I have a lot of respect for the person Coach Antonio is, the work he has done, and the discipline he has shown to improve himself every year. Even though I have not played for him in several years, I can still count on his support when I need it. That is a special quality to possess and not many people in this business actually have it. Without his help in developing my skills, as well as the guidance he provided off the court, I would not have been able to experience the level of success I have had as a professional basketball player.