Alexander Vezenkov stood before the American media after the end of the season for his Sacramento Kings in the NBA.
The Bulgarian had to answer numerous questions, the main part of which were dedicated to his debut year in the League.
The national basketball player talks about the problems and difficulties he has encountered in recent months.
He categorically stated that he made the right decision to play in the strongest basketball championship on the planet.
He described his first season in the NBA as: “strange, with highs and lows”. And he admitted he wants to get more playing time as he has 100 percent met the requirements for it.
Here’s what else Vezenkov had to say about his first campaign with the Sacramento Kings, who failed to make the playoffs even though that was his big goal.
“I can say that it was a strange season. With highs and lows. For me it was the beginning of a new life and a touch with a completely different style of play, and also I got two injuries. I tried to adapt as quickly as possible. Unfortunately , we ended the season too early. We all wanted to go further in the playoffs. My goal was to get better every day. There were also situations that were difficult and different for me.
The NBA differs in the quality of the talented players. This is downright crazy. It’s one thing to watch it on TV, but it’s very different in reality – the pace of the game, the speed of the transfer. I personally need improvement in every aspect. The only good thing is that we will have a long break until next season.
I don’t have any plans for the break between seasons yet. I really feel at home here, but first I’ll go home and then we’ll see. I always train during the break. In Europe we don’t have that much time as the seasons end in mid-June. I have enough time now. That’s the big difference. I have 5-6 months until next season and I will use them to improve my performance overall.
Photo: AP/BTA
There is no doubt that I made the right decision to play in the NBA. I’ve certainly doubted other things, but at no point did I think my choice was wrong. This is a great opportunity that you cannot turn down. This is the NBA! What I want to get in terms of playing time and what I’m given are different things. If you ask me about the role I had during the season – it was very difficult for me. One game you play well, another not. You have 10 minutes, or five, or less, and you have to show your best. I am a positive person and I try to be that way all the time to help my teammates. I think this season I did 100% what was asked of me.
It’s still hard to go from MVP to the NBA level. Everyone likes to be the center of attention, to be the best, to show off their qualities and play more. Although the level is different, one feels that way in every field. I knew where I was coming and what was happening. Sometimes I felt that I could play better, other times – that I should play more. However, I look at my own mistakes first. Even basketball players who play 35 minutes a game will say they want to play more. Once again I will summarize – it was a difficult year,” concluded Vezenkov.
BTA
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