Alexey Shved:
I'd Give Monia The Final 3-Point Shot

Alexey Shved has rescued Khimki in several games this season, was named the league's top Russian player in November and put on a show against Lokomotiv-Kuban, pouring in 32 points.

In an interview with VTB-League.com, the 26-year-old guard talked about his final shot in the game vs. Loko, shared who on Khimki's roster he thinks should take the final 3-point shot, discussed what it was like playing for Ettore Messina, Jonas Kazlauskas and Sergei Bazarevich and also explained the nuances of playing in the NBA.

- More than anyone else, your style of play is practically an art form. Do you sometimes feel inspiration? Was the game on Monday against Loko that type of day?
- I wouldn't say that. When I go out on the court, in addition to being focused on getting a win, I try to get as much pleasure as possible from the game itself. As for the game against Lokomotiv: we knew that we had to win that game and we were extremely motivated. We got the job done and everyone on the team played well.

- What was the thought process for that final shot? Did you want to thank the fans for their support?
- There wasn't much time left. I felt really confident, so I took the shot. I'm happy if the fans enjoyed it. They really supported us throughout the game. I'd like to tell them thank-you!

- There were two overtimes against Loko. Have you played in other games that were that drawn-out and intense?
- Yes, there were a few games in the NBA when I played more than 40 minutes and the outcome was decided down the stretch.

- You've recently begun starting games. Many have commented that you look more confident and are having a bigger impact. Do you prefer being in the starting lineup?
- Of course, it's easier for me to be a starter. But the coach decides. I'll go on the court whenever the team needs me.

- You're leading the league in made free throws (50). Is it because the defense can't keep up with you or is that just how you play?
- Yes, it's probably because of my playing style. Both in the NBA and here, I try to draw contact in order to earn easy points for my team.

- Is it easier to shoot 3-pointers in Europe?
- Personally, yes. After all, the 3-point line is closer to the basket in Europe.

- It can be tough for coaches to adjust to your style of play. Who was the most laid-back coach you've played for and who was the strictest?
- Ettore Messina was probably the strictest. Sergei Bazarevich and Jonas Kazlauskas were more laid-back.

- The team is figuring out its roles. In your opinion, if the game comes down to one shot, who should take it?
- I think anyone on our team can hit a big shot. It just depends on the situation. But I think it would be Tyrese Rice or Sergey Monia. Monia is a 3-point specialist, so I'd trust him with a decisive '3'.

- Russian players are performing very well in the VTB United League this season. Who have you noticed?
- I can't say that I've seen a lot of games. Our schedule is really busy right now. But I'd single out my teammates Sergey Monia and Egor Vyaltsev, as well as Andrei Vorontsevich and Dmitry Khvostov.

- Playing in the NBA is a lifelong dream for many basketball players. What kind of player do you need to be--in terms of playing style--to stick there and have an impact on any team?
- You have to be really strong and taller than everyone else by a foot. There are different styles: you can be a hard worker and pull down 15 rebounds a game. Players like that are always in demand. You can also be individually talented and dynamic.