Luka Šamanić: “Russian basketball is going in a good direction”

Zenit center Luka Šamanić shared his expectations ahead of the game against MBA-MAI. The round 27 VTB United League matchup will take place on February 7 at Zenit’s home court. Tip-off is set for 13:30 St. Petersburg time. Tickets are available.

— We are facing MBA next. What's the team mindset going through this game?

— Third time we play this team, so we have to play harder and measure the energy. Everything starts from defense and just playing hard.

— Two interesting facts. Your debut for Zenit was in the game against MBA. And in two matches playing with them you both times became a top scorer of the team. Is it a special opponent for you?

— I mean, not really. I just like to play against Pavel Savkov and I want to beat him every time we play.

— MBA has only Russian players in the roster. What are their main strengths?

— Very physical, big team, talented offensively and I think it just shows that Russian basketball is going in a good direction.

— Now everybody mentions our defense. But which factors will also be key to achieving a positive result tomorrow?

— Just play hard, as you said, play good defense and create good offense from playing defense and just share the ball.

— What message would you like to send to the fans ahead of the game?

— Just come, support us, watch and we'll try to play hard for you.