Sports Director of the Azerbaijan Basketball Federation, Turgay Zeytingoz, gave an interview to Idman.biz.
- The final series of the Azerbaijan Basketball League begins today. Before these decisive games, I'd like to talk about this season. How would you assess the season?
- It’s been a great season. I thank everyone who contributed to it—referees, coaches, players, and the fans who came to watch. We’ve reached the end of another season without any fights, and I hope the finals will go smoothly as well.
- Did you expect this kind of final, or were the teams a surprise?
- No, this final was expected. However, some teams performed very well during the season. For instance, Absheron made a great story by reaching the semifinals. They initially eliminated NTD and then Nakhchivan. After that, they had tough matches with Neftchi. On the other side, Shaki showed good performances throughout the season. However, they didn’t have enough strength to overcome Sabah in the battle. They couldn’t offer the necessary resistance. In any case, I think Shaki had a very good season.
- What kind of battle do you expect to see in the final?
- I think the final games will be very tough. As you know, the first team to win four games will be the champion. Neftchi and Sabah are the two most professional teams in Azerbaijani basketball. It will be interesting to watch the fight between these two strong teams.
- Do you think last year’s champion Sabah should be considered the clear favorite in the final?
- Sabah has had successful results both in Europe and the domestic championship since the beginning of the season. They finished first in their group and reached the finals more easily. Before that, they didn’t have many tough matches. Neftchi, on the other hand, had tough games throughout the season, especially in the semifinals against Ordu. I think Neftchi will benefit from that experience in the final series. I believe Sabah is a bit far from their fast-paced rhythm right now. Therefore, I think the first two games will be especially tough. In the end, I think we will see quality basketball in the final. I invite all basketball fans to the Baku Sports Palace. Very exciting games and a magnificent atmosphere await you.
Aytaj Sahed
Idman.biz
