Trent Frazier: "I think our fans are probably the best"
In an interview with Zenit TV blue-whites guard Trent Frazier shared his impressions after defeating CSKA (86:70) in the second match of the VTB United League final.
— It was very important. We know what type of game it's going to be every time we go up against them. That's a very good club, so we've just got to prepare mentally and be ready to play for 40 minutes. I thought we did a good job tonight just executing on both sides following the game plan and winning the game.
— What was the key moment tonight, and what adjustments did you make compared to Game 1?
— Defense. I thought we did a very good job just being more physical. Being mentally dialed in on what we needed to do. Defensively and being able to you know, stop their guys. So I thought we did a good job tonight. Just ultimately on both sides of the ball tonight just following the game plan.
— Talking about your own performance — in the previous game it seemed like you had some trouble, but tonight you are a top scorer with 18 points. What changed?
— No trouble, I think I've scored a lot of points in my career. Some nights the ball not gonna go in so and tonight the ball went in. It's basketball and the work shows that's what I continue to do. Just come in and work and then the work will show. I mean, I'm not really too focused on if I score 0 points or if I score 20. I mean the ball is gonna drop for me just based off my works. So I just got to continue to be mentally dialed in on what I need to do and shoot my shots when I'm open.
— What did you feel when you heard the final buzzer, especially knowing it was our first win in the finals?
— It feels amazing. Like I said, it's a long series. Okay, we got to still win three more. We got to go over there to Moscow and try to get two games. So we know what type of game is going to be. Like I said, we just got to be mentally prepared for you know everything and try to go over there and win the game.
— How much energy did all the fans give to you?
— A lot of energy. I think our fans are probably the best. They've been the best all playoffs. They come in loud, every seat is filled and they bring a lot of energy for 40 minutes. That's what we need. You know, even when we're down, they're bringing the energy. So we, the players, appreciate it more than anything because we know where they have our backs and we can't wait to see them in Moscow.
— Last time Dwayne Bacon and Okaro White showed up in the NHL jerseys. Do you plan to do the same?
— No, I don't watch hockey.
— Have you heard anything about the hockey team we have here in St. Petersburg?
— Yes, I've heard, but I've just never been to a hockey game or know anything about hockey.
— What would you like to say to the fans before heading to Moscow?
— Thank you, fans. You guys have been brilliant for these two games. Thank you so much for showing up today. After losing Game 1 we appreciate you guys energy for 40 minutes tonight. We expect that you guys show up in Moscow with that same energy and enthusiasm, we hope to see you in Moscow.
