Dejan Radonjić: "We need to think about the next opponent immediately"

Zenit head coach Dejan Radonjić commented on the victory over Enisey (106:56) in the home game of Round 26 of the VTB United League regular season. He spoke about the changes he has managed to implement in the team’s play and also highlighted Andrey Vorontsevich as one of the most experienced players on the roster.

— First of all, congrats to my players for this approach. It was really good. So also it was important to be very focused like I said before the game. We did a lot of good things on both ends. Not only defensively, offensively it was… You see — 28 assists, so offensively it was also good. We controlled the game from the beginning and we need to think about the next opponent immediately.

— Xavier Moon returned to the court after rejoining Zenit following an injury. You may not have followed him very closely last season. Could you share your first impressions of his performance today?

— He did some short part time of practice with a us. Our plan for today was to give him these playing minutes. I hope he will give us exactly what we need to play good and to be ready for the playoff. He needs some days to spend with the team, of course, but we will go step-by-step.

— What key principle or changes in the team’s play have you managed to implement in such a short period, and how has the team responded?

— For me, as I analyzed, you know, what was most important to play on both ends as a team more than they did. This was most important. On both ends, defensively and offensively. Also to follow important things like focus energy and responsibility. 

— Last season, before his injury, Xavier Moon was the team’s leader. Do you think he can reach the same level again? And will you give him that opportunity?

— He came here to be important player. 

— In the team, the captain is a bridge between the coach and the team. At the same time, you have a player like Andrey Vorontsevich, who gives a lot of tips to his teammates. Can you say that Andrey Vorontsevich is not only another bridge, but also your assistant on the court?

— I know him, so many years we played between each other. I don't know how many games. Now he's an important player for us with his experience to give us what we need as a team. Of course, not only him. For most of the players, I would like to see good connection with the bench, of course, with his experience. And I know him he knows me. Also it will be easier to have good connection for sure. And like I said not only him but what I expect from most of the players — to be ready to give their maximum and to play like we need during the season, especially in the playoff.