Denis Zakharov: "Everyone understands the importance of the game against CSKA"

Blue-whites guard Denis Zakharov commented on the away victory over Enisey (60:81) in an interview with Zenit TV and shared his expectations for the upcoming match against CSKA.

— Denis, congratulations on the victory. Was the goal today to keep the opponent from pulling away, unlike in previous games?

— Not really, we never set such a goal. We always play for the result and try not to focus on the score. Sometimes, we have lapses, but today, the game was quite even, and we secured the win.

— How difficult was March, considering the trip to Krasnodar and three away matches in nine days?

— Yes, we traveled a lot. But thanks to the club, they tried to provide us with the most comfortable conditions possible. So I think we’re in good physical shape: we’re coming back and getting ready for the next game.

— It seems like the whole season has been leading up to this next game. Does the team understand that, and what’s the mindset going into the match against CSKA?

— Everyone understands that this is an important game, theoretically for first place in the regular season. But we will approach it the same way we do every other match. There’s no such thing as playing at half strength against some teams and giving our all against others. Everyone knows how important this game is, so we will be fully focused. We’ll arrive, rest, recover, analyze [our opponent] — we’ll be ready.

— You have 5.5 hours ahead on the plane. How will you spend the time?

— As always: resting, reading, watching some shows.