Idman.biz
"Neftchi" has strengthened its squad with Japanese Aoi Katsura in this season of the Women's World Series in 3x3 basketball. She played for the Baku team in the stage held in the Philippines, and then went to the next tournament, which will start in Shanghai on May 16.
Idman.Biz talked to Aoi Katsura, who spoke about how she adapted to the Azerbaijani club.
Katsura shared her impressions of her performance in the Manila stage, where "Neftchi" advanced to the semi-finals:
"It was a very important and emotional tournament for me. It turned out special, because at the start of any competition, the team only begins to feel each other in official matches. The Philippines had a great atmosphere, a lot of fans and a high level of competitors. I am glad that I was able to represent "Neftchi" for the first time, we were one step away from reaching the final".
The basketball player also spoke about what prompted her to accept the offer from Baku:
"I was familiar with my current teammates Dina Ulyanova, Aleksandra Mollenhauer and Brianna Fraser, as well as coach Ratomir Delic. I have been playing 3x3 basketball for several years and I immediately adapted to the team's style. Although there was little time to prepare, I got into the rhythm of the game quickly enough. My teammates and the coaching staff helped me a lot to feel like a part of the team. Despite playing for the Japanese national team for a long time, I always wanted to try myself abroad. And with "Neftchi" I have such an opportunity".
The Japanese athlete also expressed her opinion about the club's prospects:
"I think the team has great potential. We showed character in Manila and tried to fight in every episode. We will continue in the same spirit in the second stage in Shanghai. Of course, there are things that need to be improved, but this is only the beginning of the season and there are many more tournaments ahead. I want to continue progressing with "Neftchi", win as many matches as possible and represent the club properly in the international arena. I am sure that we can achieve serious results. I hope for the support of the fans in the next stages as well, because World Series matches are also waiting for us in Azerbaijan".
It should be noted that one of "Neftchi"'s opponents in the group stage in Shanghai will be the Dutch club "Amsterdam". Another opponent will be determined later.
