I've gotten better at calling out coverages, communication, and being vertical when they're attacking me in the paint.

In this quote, Ivica Zubac reflects on his growth as a basketball player, specifically in improving his skills related to calling out coverages, communication, and defending in the paint. Zubac acknowledges that part of his development involves becoming more effective at reading the game and responding to the opposing team's offensive strategies. By calling out coverages, he is helping to organize the defense and ensure that everyone is on the same page when facing specific offensive threats.

Zubac highlights the importance of communication on the court, which is vital for a team to function cohesively. His ability to speak up and direct his teammates during plays can make a significant difference in defending against the opposition. This communication ensures that each player understands their role and can react accordingly to the changes in the offensive setup, especially when defending in high-pressure situations.

The phrase “being vertical when they're attacking me in the paint” refers to Zubac’s defensive technique. In basketball, defending in the paint requires the defender to be in a strong, upright position—being "vertical"—to contest shots effectively and avoid fouls. Zubac has clearly worked on refining his defensive posture and timing to be more effective in stopping opponents from scoring in the paint.

Ultimately, Zubac’s quote illustrates his commitment to improving as a player by focusing on specific areas of his game: defensive positioning, communication, and understanding how to read the opposing team’s offense. His improvement in these aspects shows a clear growth in both his individual defensive skills and his ability to contribute to the team’s overall defensive strategy.