Five (or six) questions with new Lobo Tomislav Buljan

Tomislav Buljan committed on Friday to play for the UNM Lobos basketball team this coming season.

The 6-foot-9 forward is 22 years old and has been playing in a professional league, though doing so while maintaining his NCAA eligibility, for several years in his home country of Croatia and has also played in Spain.

The Journal reached out to Buljan at his home in Split, Croatia, and asked him questions to give Lobo basketball fans a little more of an understanding of what to expect from the untraditional freshman coming to Albuquerque in a few weeks. Here are his emailed responses to the Journal:

Journal: How did you get connected with the UNM Lobos in recruiting?

Buljan: “For some years, I have been following college basketball, and if the opportunity arose, I always wanted to play there one day. My former teammates are currently playing college basketball, and they spoke highly of UNM Lobos and New Mexico. When Coach Eric Olen reached out, I was truly excited and honored that the organization was interested in me.”

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Journal: What about UNM’s system made you decide to play for the Lobos?

Buljan: “I enjoy playing hard, physical basketball with a lot of fast breaks. Additionally, I am comfortable in half-court, five-on-five situations. With my experience in Europe, I have no doubt that I can thrive in UNM’s system.”

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Journal: What do you know about New Mexico or playing in the Pit?

Buljan: “I’ve watched several games which Coach Tom Tankelewicz has sent me, and the fan support and atmosphere are incredible. I can’t wait to play in The Pit in front of all the passionate fans.”

Journal: Are you a better soccer player or basketball player? And how does your soccer background help you in basketball?

Buljan: “From age 7 till 15 I played soccer and basketball combined. My past soccer coaches always say that I was a decent goalie, but on the other hand because of my height at that time basketball coaches said that I had more potential to be a great basketball player. It’s hard to say what would I make of my soccer career because I didn’t continue it, obviously.

“My father also helped me a lot during my development because he was a basketball player and is also a coach right now.

“It’s important to take any sport seriously and maintain discipline on and off the court. My background as a soccer goalkeeper has helped me develop quick reflexes, ability to catch rebounds and have a feeling for steals which translate well to basketball.”

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Journal: What type of player will Lobo fans see playing in the Pit next season? Is there another player you think you play similar to?

Buljan: “I will always give 100% on the court. For me, the team comes first — I believe in playing smart, team-oriented basketball. Fans can expect fast breaks, hustle plays, strong finishes at the rim and the ability to knock down 3s when needed. I’ve heard great things about Nelly Junior Joseph from last season; he was dominant on the boards and had impressive dunks. I hope to contribute in a similar way and help the team win many games.”

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Journal: How have you benefitted from playing at such a high level in Croatia?

Buljan: “Playing at a high level in Croatia and Spain has been extremely beneficial for my development. Additionally, representing the Croatian national team has been a great honor. Competing against older, experienced players has prepared me to adapt quickly and perform effectively in any basketball system.”