Lokomotiv Kuban's newcomer gave the club's press service his first interview in Russia.
- What are your first impressions of Russia?
- My first impression was great. Definitely surpassed my expectations. I didn't really know what to expect coming here. I've never been here, so it's my first time. Once the news broke that I was coming, I started to ask around former teammates who played here. They had all great things to say about the city and the team. So I'm excited to get started and explore the city a little more.
- What are your first impressions of your new teammates? Have you met anyone before? And of coaches and facilities here?
- Honestly, they're all amazing. They're very cool, very welcoming, letting me know if I need anything. Don't hesitate to reach out and to ask them. Like I said before, they all had great things to say about the club and the city. A lot of them, this is their second or third year playing here in Russia, so that's a great sign for me. I've been in contact with the coaches before I got here. We've been able to establish a good relationship. I think we're going to have a good working relationship on the court as well. The facilities, honestly, the best facilities I've played in, hands down, throughout my whole career. That speaks for itself.
- While being at Karşıyaka, you played against Loko this summer in pre-season games. Do you remember this game?
- Yeah, I remember us getting blown out by at least 20 [it was 64:85]. That just tells me how strong this team is, so I'm excited to be a part of that and be a part of a winning culture. I remember playing well, scoring 18 points, so that stuck out to me, and obviously it stuck out to the coaching staff and the team. Like I said, I'm just excited to join everybody here and get to work.
- What were your first thoughts when Loko came up with the idea of your transfer here?
- I'm just excited. Obviously I've heard about the history of this club. They're one of the top teams here in Russia, so you're always grateful and excited when such team shows that they want you.
- What did you know about the Russian League, and CSKA, who we're gonna play this Friday?
- I've heard about how good CSKA is, obviously, and I've also heard how good Loko is, so I know it's going to be a great game, a great environment with a full arena. So that's all I know, but I'm looking forward to learning more about it.
- What's your playing style?
- I'm fast-paced. I like to stretch the floor with my shooting ability, my athleticism. I'm very versatile. I can switch defensively, putting me in different positions. Just like a Swiss Army knife is how I like to describe myself sometimes. The coach can put me in different situations to be successful, so I really don't have any limit in my game.
- Do you like more playing in defense or in offense?
- I think I'm more skilled as an offensive player naturally, so I think offense is definitely my strong suit. But I like the challenge of defense. I like being challenged, so when I switch off into a guard, I take that as a personal challenge. I like that.
- Except for Karşıyaka and Loko, have you ever played any red-green teams before?
- That's a good question. Red and green. No, honestly, no. I've played with teams that have some red in them, but not strictly red or green.
- Do you like these colors?
- I think I look good in these colors.
- Do you want to say something to Loko fans?
- I'm looking forward to playing in front of you guys. I know that you're going to support us at the next game and throughout the season, so I'm looking forward to bringing my energy on the court and getting to know you guys really well.
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