Pavel Zemskiy: "I need to gain experience and keep improving my game"
— Pavel, congratulations on the win. Zenit looked very confident today. What allowed the team to control the game?
— First of all, thank you for the congratulations. We had good defensive focus, great energy both on the court and on the bench — everyone gave 100%. We ran the fast break a lot, defended well, controlled the boards on both ends. These things helped us win.
— You last played on November 9 — it’s been over a month. Were you expecting to get minutes today?
— Yes, I was waiting for my chance. I just wanted to make the most of the moment and show what I’m capable of, to help the team win.
— How do you feel physically, and how would you rate your performance? Twelve points in 22 minutes — your VTB career high.
— Overall, not bad, but there’s always room for improvement. There were some mistakes on defense and offense. Step by step — it’ll only get better. I need to gain experience and keep improving my game.
— Samara has one of the most productive duos in Europe — Cheburkin and Mikhaylovsky. Do you think you managed to stop them today?
— I think we did a good job reading their actions, stopping their offense, limiting their closeouts and drives. Because of that, we were able to build such a big lead — we scouted them well and executed the plan.
— At the same time, Zenit-2 was fighting for a spot in the Russian Cup quarterfinals — and the guys made it with the needed point difference. Want to congratulate them?
— Sure! I congratulate the guys — great job advancing to the next round. A big step ahead, a big game against Nizhny Novgorod. I believe they have a real chance to reach the Russian Cup Final. I always believe in them — they’re my brothers, so of course I congratulate them.
— On Saturday, Zenit plays Krasnoyarsk, where two Academy graduates — Egor Ryzhov and Artem Antipov — are playing. Do you stay in touch with them?
— Of course. I text the guys from time to time, ask how things are going. We stay in touch pretty often. I message Artem all the time — he’s always up to date.
— Anything you’d like to say to Zenit fans?
— Thanks to all our fans for the support — the atmosphere was great. Big thanks to everyone, the team did well, the coaching staff did well. Congratulations to all of us on the win!
