Surrounded by flags from countries around the world, the students at Carolina International School gathered in the courtyard on Tuesday, January 31, to welcome a very special guest.

With the school’s cheerleaders leading the way, the crowd erupted as Bobcats public address announcer Patrick Daughty introduced the kids to Bobcats center Primoz Brezec.

Brezec spent the next half hour participating in a question-and-answer session with the students. Each class selected a representative to step forward and ask the Slovenian native and four-year NBA veteran a question.

Alex wanted to know what it was like to play in the NBA, while Austin wanted to know what languages were spoke in Brezec’s native land. Emile meanwhile wanted to hear more about the culture of Slovenia.

Through their questions, the students were able to gain a glimpse into Slovenian life, as well as find out what it’s like to play in the NBA.

They learned that Slovenia is in Europe and is bordered by Italy, Austria, Hungary and Croatia and that Slovenian is the language spoken there.

For Brezec, moving to the United States required him to adapt to a different culture and a different way of life.

“When I first came here, it was so much was different,” he told the kids. “There was a different mentality, different food. I hated the food. I got used to it though. Now I’m here in Charlotte and I love it. You just have to get used to it no matter where you go.”

Even though his taste buds haven’t completely adapted to American food, he does enjoy eating a hamburger now and then, but his favorite foods still remain those from his homeland. Because of the proximity to Italy, these foods include dishes such as lasagna, pasta and meats.

Besides cultural differences, he also shared with the kids the differences that exist between European basketball and the NBA

“There are a lot more games in the NBA,” he said. “The players in the NBA are also stronger and more athletic. (Playing for the Bobcats) is a dream come true. It’s a blessing to get paid to do what you love. I love playing for the Bobcats. They are the second team in my NBA career, and they gave me the opportunity to prove myself. I really like it here -- the team, the city and the people.”

The highlight of the day came when one of the students stepped forward and asked if Brezec would give her teacher a hug. Brezec agreed to thundering applause.

“Giving the teacher a hug was the best moment of the day,” said Scott Morris, athletic director at the school. “That made her day. She didn’t expect it. It was moment that none of us will ever forget.”

Before Brezec left, the students presented him with a school hat and a basketball signed by all the members of the boys and girls basketball team.

“It was great hanging out with the kids and talking about my country and where I come from,” said Brezec as he left the school.

The staff was also appreciative of Brezec’s willingness to share more about his native land with the students.

“This was a great opportunity for the students to gain insight into Slovenia, as well as what it’s like playing in the NBA,” said Morris. “The kids were excited and the energy they had helped make a great atmosphere.”