Matvey Kozhaev: "I can’t wait to get on the court and play our first match"
Zenit U19 forward Matvey Kozhayev shared how he spent the summer off-season. Last season, the player became the champion of the Children’s Youth Basketball League with blue-whites, averaging 4.1 points and 3 rebounds per game. Expectations from the upcoming 2024/25 draw and details from the team in our interview.
— How did you spend your summer, and were you able to follow an individual program during the off-season? Where and with whom did you train?
— The summer went great. I trained almost every day, trying to fix all the shortcomings identified last season. In July, I was invited to train with the local Super League, making that month extremely productive. I also attended sports camps and discovered 3x3 basketball.
— The upcoming season will be your last in the Children’s Youth Basketball League. What goals do you set for yourself after a championship season?
— The goals for the upcoming season are the same — only to become a champion. Personally, I aim to become even better and progress every day. I will strive to do everything necessary for the team's success, and I’m confident it will work out.
— The coaching staff has been updated, how has this affected the players? How is the team coping with the tasks set by the new coach?
— Undoubtedly, changes in the coaching staff will make some adjustments to the game compared to last season, but our coaches are familiar to all the guys, except for the newcomers from other cities, so it doesn’t affect the players much. At the moment, everything is excellent. The guys are really trying their best, and there’s some sort of understanding with Dmitry Alexandrovich. Everything is great!
— The team has been joined by young players, and the "old guys " have moved to other teams. Has the mood within the team changed? Has the team spirit remained?
— No, most of the guys know each other, and the newcomers have already integrated into the team, so the atmosphere is great right now. The team spirit is high because the guys understand where they are and why.
— What emotions are you experiencing before the start of the season? Can’t wait to get on the court and show yourself?
— I can’t wait to get on the court and play our first match. Naturally, the emotions are only positive. I’ve been looking forward to this season, and I’m sure it will go great.
