Interview

Antonius Cleveland: “I accepted the Loko’ offer immediately”

The Basketball Sphere website have published an interview with the Loko guard.

The full text you may find HERE. Let us show you the most interesting excerpts from it.

How long did you think on the Lokomotiv Kuban offer?
My agent presented Lokomotiv Kuban as the first option. I called Patrick Miller, asked about the team, and he really likes it here. I then talked to my wife, and I didn’t negotiate with anyone else. There was no other option. I accepted the offer immediately. Tough logistics? In Maccabi, we had to play home Euroleague games in Belgrade. It was very tough, with a lot of flights. Coming here, I realized it would be a similar situation—lots of flights. Mentally, I think I’m ready, and I feel that my body is prepared as well. I’ll be ready for all the similarities to last year. So, no complaints on my end.
Soon after you joined Loko, Andrey Vedishchev, who is also the club’s president, took over as head coach. What do you think about this situation?
I’m sure he’s ready to take on that role. As both coach and president, he’ll lead us, and we’ll have to follow. We’ll need to figure it out together, and as time goes on, I think we’ll be fine.
You've played in NBA, Australia, Euroleague. Which basketball do you like most?
I think I like them all because basketball is unique. Every country and continent brings a different vibe. Australia is similar to the NBA in that it’s very fast-paced, up and down. But I really enjoy the European style because it makes you think more—there’s more strategy, and it’s like a chess match between two coaches. I prefer good basketball over just running up and down the court. With all due respect, that’s the NBA. In Europe, there’s better defense, and with just a few guys, you can accomplish certain things. That’s why I enjoy it more.
You are widely recognised for your defensive skills. Don't you think defense is an underrated part of the game?
I do, but I also think it’s something many people can’t do. That’s what makes it unique. I enjoy playing defense, it’s true. I believe defense can help us make an impact and win games. That’s how I see it. I’m excited to go for the Defensive Player of the Year award in the VTB League. That’s a personal goal of mine and something I want to achieve. It’ll also help us toward our goal of winning.
What do you expect from the upcoming season?
I expect us to have a great season and finish among the top four teams, as Lokomotiv always does. From there, we can build toward the championship. I think we have the right pieces to do it and the talent as well. With the right mindset and preparation, we can make it happen. That’s something I also want to achieve here.

Уже совсем скоро в Краснодаре вы сможете увидеть игру Антониуса Кливленда своими глазами: 22 сентября «Локо» играет с «Енисеем», 25 сентября – с «Астаной». Ждём вас в «Баскет-Холле»!

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