Ivan Vasiliev: "The first half of the season went quite successfully"

Zenit U21 forward Ivan Vasiliev was named to the symbolic five of the VTB United Youth League in December.

The player participated in all eight matches of the month, in seven of which the team achieved victory. On average, the forward scored 16.6 points, grabbed 6.8 rebounds, made 1.0 steal, 0.8 assists, and 0.5 blocks per game.

On December 9, in a home match against MINSK-M, Vasiliev recorded a double-double, setting a career-high with 32 points and 13 rebounds.

We spoke with Ivan about his inclusion in the symbolic five, the results of the first half of the regular championship, and his personal goals for 2026.

— Ivan, the year is ending for you not only with a successful series of matches by the team but also with a personal award. What emotions are you experiencing?

— I feel only positive emotions; it's nice to end the series without losses, and it’s also great to be in the symbolic five of the month.

— The December home game against MINSK-M was one of the best in your career within the United Youth League. What allowed you to perform at such a level?

— I’m sure it’s due to hard work, not just my own but also the efforts of my teammates and the coaching staff; I’m especially grateful to them.

— The first hakf of the regular championship has come to an end. Zenit U21 is in second place with only two losses. How would you assess the first half of the season?

— The first half of the season went quite successfully. A record of 26-2 is a good result; we will continue to work because there is still room for growth.

— What personal goals do you set for yourself in 2026?

— I really want to help the team reach the finals and win the gold of the VTB United Youth League, as well as work hard in training and improve my individual game.

I would like to congratulate all Zenit fans on the upcoming New Year! Thank you for your support; we always feel it and look forward to seeing you at our games in the New Year!