Interview with Aubrey McAlpine, American player of “Absheron Lions,” representing Azerbaijan in the European Basketball Cup in the new season for AZERTAC
“Absheron Lions” basketball team will participate in the European Cup for the first time in its history. We are curious about your impressions...
The club management believed in us and took a big step to compete on the European stage. Playing in Eurocups is an amazing feeling. We want to make a good impression on people and introduce ourselves to the world.
In the first qualifying round of the tournament, you will face the Cypriot club “Anorthosis.” How do you assess your chances?
We will be ready to fight against “Anorthosis.” We have a good team and coaching staff. I believe we can pass this stage. After returning to Baku, we will start training and analyze the opponent.
Do you have any information about Cypriot basketball?
They play a fast game. Cypriot teams like to play at a high tempo.
When will you start preparations for the new season?
I will come to Baku on August 13 or 14. Probably after that, we will start training camp. In the coming weeks, we will watch past games of “Anorthosis.”
What are your goals in the Azerbaijani Basketball League for the new season?
We want to win all the titles. If a player or a team has no goals, why compete? Last season we finished fourth. This year our goal is higher. We intend to move forward step by step.
What are your thoughts about Azerbaijan and Baku?
This is already my third season here. Baku is my home. I have good friends in Azerbaijan. Overall, the city is calm and comfortable. I really like Azerbaijani cuisine.
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