Andrey Vorontsevich: "Today is your day, tomorrow it’s not, but the main thing is the team result"
An interview with Andrey Vorontsevich — exclusively for Zenit TV. In the away game against MBA-MAI (65:83), the Blue-White-Sky Blues forward scored 15 points (4 three-pointers) and surpassed the 3000-point mark in the VTB United League, becoming only the fourth player in the tournament’s history to reach this milestone.
— Andrey, congratulations on the win! How difficult was it to get into such an intense game?
— It was a very tough game. First of all, congratulations to MBA-MAI on winning the Russian Cup. They deserved it — they played hard and fought. We watched that final and understand that they’re on a strong upswing right now. They also had a difficult flight from Vladivostok, but they started today very freely — in the first quarter they hit, if I’m not mistaken, six three-pointers (eight — Zenit’s note). So it wasn’t a surprise for us, but at times we tried to help each other and sometimes overdid it with defensive help. And MBA is a team that reads situations very well and finds the open player. So in the remaining three quarters we played more balanced basketball, fought hard, and imposed our own style. It wasn’t easy, and it’s always tough to play here. Once again, congratulations to all Zenit fans on today’s victory!
— We also congratulate you on surpassing 3000 points in the VTB United League. Did you plan to reach that milestone today?
— Honestly, I didn’t plan anything at all. I just live and enjoy every moment. Thank God it turned out this way. And thanks to everyone who supports me and says kind words — and even those who don’t. So thank you all. Of course, it’s an individual achievement, but for me the most important thing is the team’s victory, because I’m a team player and always focused only on winning.
— In the first quarter, MBA had incredible shooting — 8 out of 10 from beyond the arc. In the second quarter, it dropped to 0 out of 4. What helped turn things around?
— As I said, defense. We stopped overhelping and focused more on individual defense, making the opponent take very difficult shots.
— Today, Ismaël Bako and Johnny Juzang scored their first points for Zenit. Izzy is familiar with the League, but for Johnny it was a debut. It looked like you were guiding him during the game. What were you telling him?
— We talked during the game about defense and how we need to help each other. He’s a hardworking guy. Of course, it’s not easy for him — new system, new coach, new teammates. At the beginning, it’s always tough. But all the guys treat him positively, and he’s clearly trying and proving himself. I hope he’ll help us a lot in the remainder of the season. He’s talented, runs well, shoots — but of course there are some imperfections, because again, it’s a new team for him, and there’s always an adjustment period. From our side, we’re helping him and doing everything we can to make his transition into the team smoother and more comfortable.
— By the way, Trent didn’t have his best shooting night today, but he dished out 14 assists.
— I think everything is fine — let him keep taking his shots. The key isn’t whether you make or miss, but whether your decisions are logical. If you take chaotic, forced shots, that’s not good for the team. But when the team knows he’s taking his shots and making the right plays, there are no questions. On the contrary, we support him and tell him: "Keep shooting". What matters is that he also plays for the team. The coach sees that and gives him opportunities. You won’t always score — today is your day, tomorrow it’s not. But the most important thing is the team result — that’s the foundation.
— In four days, you’ll play against Lokomotiv Kuban in Saint Petersburg. Are you ready?
— We’re ready. Come support your favorite team! We’re waiting for everyone. We always give you our warmth, and you energize us with your support — so come and cheer for your Zenit!
The last tickets for the match against Lokomotiv Kuban are available on the club’s official website.
