TEHRAN (FIBA Asia Champions Cup) - The event finished over a week ago, but the memories will never go. There were various unforgettable scenes during the games so nice for the eyes to see, and motivating words for ears to hear.

One, two, three, defense; or one, two, three, win; these words, easily heard from the Press seats, were expressed by the players of Qatar's Al-Rayyan, each time they were leaving the bench for the court after the time-outs.

One of the most exciting games during the whole event, was the battle between Al-Rayyan and Iran's Saba Battery, who finally took the championship.

And one of Al-Rayyan's key players whose brilliant performance will never be forgotten, was no one but their US point-guard, Chudney Gray.

The St. John's University graduate sat with the FIBA correspondent in Iran, a day after the game at the lobby of Tehran's Laleh Hotel for an interview:

Could you start with giving us a background of your career in the Middle East?
My first time in the Middle East was after leaving Korea; I played in Kuwait, the Philippines and Dubai.

How many years ago?
Approximately 2 years ago. Since then, after every season, I have usually joined a team in Asian or Arab Cup, or even both.

How do you compare basketball in Asia and in the USA?
Technically, they are very different; specially the pace of the game; but it is very exciting, being introduced to a new culture, and being welcomed by people I've never really interacted with before. It's been a great experience so far.

What are the technical differences?
US players are much bigger and much more athletic. Players have a different feel for the game. You really don't have to do as much, when you join certain teams in this region.

So, isn't it boring for you to play in the Middle-Eastern teams?
No, it's not boring. I love playing basketball. It's the same what you get on that court. It's just the matter of the feel for the game; may be a little bit different wherever you play. When I played in Poland, or in the US, when I played in Korea, the feel for the game was different. But, if you love playing basketball, you're just enjoying.

Each country has its own culture, and background. Is it interesting for you to experience new things, and see a different way of life?
Of course; I am well-traveled and it's definitely a great experience. As long as you are being welcomed and treated well, no matter where you go, you should enjoy the experience.

I have seen several US players who prefer to spend their time at home, or just go out for the fitness, when they are in the Middle-East. At the same time I have seen players who show interest to communicate with new people, and find new things; you go under which category?
I am pretty much both. I am quite neutral when it comes to that. I can be both, go out, do things, etc.

Did you have any image in your mind about Iran, before you went on this trip?
I really didn't. Because, you know the news, they always paint a negative picture, because negativity sells; but I have never cared about that, because my first experience which was with the Kuwaiti team was a great experience, the people were nice, and everything was good. However, it's hard to deal with the situation when everything is politically motivated.

How did you find Iran as the host in the 18th FIBA ASIA Champions Cup?
Our hosts were very polite and very helpful. It was a cool experience. I had a chance to go out and see different things; besides, I went to the mall one time, and everything was cool.

Did you like the game against Saba?
It was the most interesting game, because if we won, we would have been in the finals. It was a very hard game. I am not to blame the referees or so on, but I believe they had a very big influence on the game.

What do you think about the level of the competitions?
It was medium. The event itself wasn't as organized as it would have been or should have been, because two teams withdrew and there were 5 teams in one group, while there were 3 teams in the other group. The games were supposed to have three referees, but there were two, because a lot of referees did not come. I played in two previous tournaments, and I believe the level was much higher, because of the teams that participated. It's hard the culture of basketball grows when things like that occurs, due to political things.

Now, have you finally accepted the loss?
No, I haven't, but what can I do?

What's your idea about Saba?
A well-coached team. That was my first time playing against them. The coach did a good job, as well as the players.

A couple of Iranian teams have shown interest to sign you for the next season; are you generally positive about this?
A few teams spoke to me, but I have not made any decision yet. This is my rest time right now; I will go home soon, and start playing in August. If a team really wants me, we can discuss;

You played a very good game against Saba, didn't you?
It's my job. I am a point-guard, and I have to lead the team and control the team. I have to take the responsibility in order to win the game.

You said you would discuss, if you receive offer from an Iranian team. What do you think about the country you may choose to play in next season?
I do not see any problem with that. As long as I am safe, I can pretty much deal with the situation. It's a feeling, and I do not feel harmed here.
I'm here now and that should say a lot. There were teams, where a couple of their imports didn't want to come. I was already a part of a team, and I'm here now. I never feel harmed.
And your final word for the readers?
I had a great time here in Iran, and great experience. Let's see what happens;

Thanks Chudney and have a great time home with your family.
Thank you.

Houman Bagheri
FIBA Official Correspondent