Indian NBA player returns home to hero's welcome

Aug 13, 2015 Satnam Singh Bhamara, the first Indian to be drafted in the American basketball league, was given a hero’s welcome when he recently returned home for a 10-day visit.

The 7-feet-2-inches player made history when he was selected by Dallas Mavericks in June as the 52nd pick in the second round.

After greeting his family, Bhamara met coaches and young players from his former training academy in Ludhiana.

Eager fans gathered around the player for autographs, which he happily signed.

While speaking to reporters, the 19 year old player expressed his happiness at his reception

“I am very happy to be here, to meet my parents, family, coaches, students and small children. I am very happy to see there is a craze for basketball here too. I hope they (students at the academy) continue this way so that they can succeed,”

Delighted at his son’s return, Bhamara’s father, Balbir Sigh Bhamara, said he was proud of his achievements.

“I am very happy. Satnam has made us proud by reaching the NBA with his hard work. We are very happy,”