Георгий Жбанов: «Надеюсь, я с "Зенитом" надолго»

Blue-whites team guard Georgy Zhbanov became one of the main heroes of the recently concluded season. Today it was announced that the player and the club have extended their agreement for 3 years. About the team's results, his favorite nickname, and plans for rest — in a new interview on Zenit TV.

— Georgy, the tough season is behind you. How do you feel?

— I feel tired, squeezed like a lemon, but there is some dissatisfaction. After all, silver is not what we deserved.

— What do you think was the key factor in the team’s results this season?

— At the beginning of the season, we were getting used to each other, there were a couple of losses that shouldn’t have happened. In the middle of the season and until the end of the playoffs, we already understood and felt each other and achieved this record-winning streak. And in the playoffs, well, we discussed with the fans that probably the fifth game against CSKA — that comeback — we lost to ourselves, and after that, something happened. I believe we lost to ourselves, not because CSKA was stronger.

— This season, fans nicknamed you "The Wall" and after the All-Star Game gave you the nickname "Tsar Georgy the Resilient". Which one do you prefer and why?

— Tsar Georgiy the Resilient, let it be that one (laughs).

— Statistically, this is your best season in your career; you set personal records in scoring (20) and steals (6). Do you have personal goals for next year?

— No, I don’t set personal goals. After all, the team’s victory is above all. If I manage to perform brightly — great, awesome. That would be personally pleasant for me, but the team will always come first.

— Do you plan to sharpen your shooting technique over the summer or work on other aspects?

— Last summer I found an approximate approach that brings results, so we just do the same thing but twice as much.

— You joined Zenit’s honorary “Club 100,” having played over 100 games for the blue-white-light blue team. Does it feel real?

— I could have played more if it weren’t for injuries last season. But now, probably, we will aim for the 200, 300 club and so on. I hope to stay with Zenit for a long time.

— How much time do you plan to devote to rest after the season?

— Now I need to get home, take a little break, and get to work. I think about ten days will be enough.

— What would you like to say to Zenit fans who love and always support you?

— Dear fans, thank you for being with us all season. This season was louder than ever — the arena was always full. What I really understood: the fans here not only love but also understand basketball. See you in the new season!