CAN/ESP – DKV’s English thrives under watchful eye of ex-Spain boss Pepu

BARCELONA (ACB) - Carl English has given Spain's world-title winning coach and his boss at DKV Joventut, Pepu Hernandez, credit for helping him enjoy arguably the best season of his career.

English, a Canada international, was on the books of Caja Laboral last season and helped them win the Spanish ACB title.

This season, he is shooting a scintillating 45% (35 of 78) from long range and averaging 14 points per contest.

DKV are reaping the benefits.

They are 9-6 and in sixth place in the ACB.

"Pepu is undoubtedly one of the best coaches I've had," English said.

"He lets you trust yourself and gives you freedom, allows you to make decisions on the court.

"He is different from other coaches and the truth is, I feel very comfortable with him."

Spain's national team players felt very comfortable with Hernandez as well after he guided them to a gold medal at the 2006 FIBA World Championship and silver at EuroBasket 2007.

But the Spanish Basketball Federation elected to fire Hernandez before the Beijing Olympics.

English helped Canada qualify for the FIBA World Championship but did not play in last year’s tournament in Turkey.

However, the country will be counting on him competing at the FIBA Americas Championship this year in Argentina when they attempt to book a place at the London 2012 Olympics.

FIBA