Georgy Zhbanov: "A big score relaxes us more than keeps us in shape"
Blue-whites guard Georgy Zhbanov shared how the team is preparing for the upcoming home match against Loko. The player talked about the kind of game he expects from the opponent and how important it is for him to win with a large margin.
— What are your expectations for the match against Lokomotiv-Kuban? They haven't lost a single game, just like Zenit.
— We're preparing for Lokomotiv as usual, just like we did for the previous four teams. There are no special expectations for this game. Whether it's Lokomotiv-Kuban, PARMA, UNICS, or MBA-MAI — we prepare the same way, analyzing both defense and offense. The coaches show us the weaknesses of the opponent that we need to target. Nothing special, just getting ready like for any other team.
— How have you managed to score 100 points in every home game so far?
— We've been able to score 100 in all home games because we play in front of our wonderful fans, who push us forward, give us energy and new strength. And, of course, ball movement — we trust each other on the court and share the ball.
— Zenit set a season record by defeating PARMA with a "+44" point difference. How important is it for you to win by a big margin?
— It's not necessary to win with a big score every time. I think it actually relaxes us more than it keeps us in shape. So it's not a big deal. As they say, one point is a win, two is a defeat. The main thing is to win and how big the margin is, that's secondary.
— What kind of game do you expect from the opponent?
— We expect Lokomotiv to play their usual signature style. Fast-paced, attacking, with lots of three-pointers, fast breaks and quick transitions. We'll try to stop all that, contain their sharpshooters and win.
— Has the Krasnodar team changed since your last meeting in the playoffs?
— Yes, at least they've changed head coach and club president Andrey Vedischev now leading the team. He puts a lot of trust in young players, which I personally really like because he’s almost raised the next generation already. The guys are doing great, proving to him that he made the right choice, and living up to his expectations.
— Are you happy with the support the fans have shown in recent home games?
— Of course, we're happy with the fans. They're always with us, saying kind words before and after games. First and foremost, we play for the fans, so a big shout-out to them. Let them know we always hear them, love them and appreciate them. Especially during away games, on long trips. They travel huge distances to be with us. Like in Krasnoyarsk or to Krasnodar. But they're still with us, supporting us. See you at the basketball games!
