Georgy Zhbanov: "I always return to Nizhny with warmth"

Zenit forward Georgy Zhbanov shared his thoughts ahead of the 6th round game of the VTB United League, which will take place tomorrow, October 24, in Nizhny Novgorod. The game against Pari NN will start at 19:00 St. Petersburg time.

— Georgy, could you tell us what memories remain of the three-pointer you scored in spectacular fashion in Nizhny Novgorod last season?

— Scoring is always nice, especially decisive shots, but to be honest, I haven’t thought about that moment in a long time. That’s all in the past. We have an opponent ahead of us, we’re moving forward, so we only think about the future.

— Do you feel any special emotions when you come to Nizhny Novgorod?

— Warmth, probably. I always return with warmth. Playing in front of fans who remember me from when I was a young guy. The arena where I started my professional career. Just pleasant, warm memories, but I try to let all that go before the game. I treat the match like any other game.

— What’s the main difference between you now and when you played for Nizhny Novgorod?

— I’m a shooter now. Definitely, I’m a shooter now.

— Could you tell us what Nizhny’s strongest point is?

— Nizhny’s strongest point is in their weakness. What I mean is, they don’t always manage to sign the players they want. There are some injury problems. But they always overcome these challenges admirably. The tougher the circumstances, the stronger they become.

— How did the preparation go?

— As usual, everything in standard mode. We studied and analyzed their strengths and weaknesses, and now we’re heading to the Volga.