CSKA point guard Sergio Rodriguez spoke exclusively with VTB-League.com following the win over Khimki.
Rodriguez will play for the World Stars at the All-Star Game and hopes to be picked for the Three-Point Contest. The Spanish playmaker also talked about who he was rooting for in the Super Bowl and why he doesn’t plan on shaving his beard.
– Sergio, you’re scoring more in the EuroLeague than the VTB United League? Why?
– It’s hard to say. I try to be effective and bring value to the team every game regardless of the competition. In the EuroLeague, I play more minutes and know all of my opponents inside and out, so maybe that’s why. The team’s results are more important, not the individual stats. I’m really happy about how we’re playing in both competitions. We’re doing an excellent job.
– You want to wear #13 at the upcoming All-Star Game in St. Petersburg. What does that number mean to you?
– It means a lot to me. I’ve been wearing it ever since I picked up a ball. I’ve got a lot of great memories wearing it. I think 13 is a lucky number and that’s why I want to wear it at the All-Star Game.
– Do you want to compete in the Three-Point Contest?
– As soon as I heard about it, I knew I was ready. My three-point percentage in the VTB United League is a lot worse than in the EuroLeague, but I’m confident I can compete for a win. Of course, I’ve never been in one before. As strange as it sounds, this is the first All-Star Game of my career, and I can’t wait for it!
– Some fans compare you to an NFL quarterback, especially because of your accuracy with long-range passes. Do you watch the NFL?
– Sometimes. But I don’t think I know that much about American football. I used to watch more games when they were on a more convenient time.
– Did you watch the Super Bowl?
– I couldn’t watch it live, but I checked out the highlights as soon as I woke up. I’m really happy Philadelphia was able to win. I was rooting for them! They’re from the same city where I played last season.
– The Sixers are also having a good season. How often do you watch the NBA?
– I watch a lot of games. Of course, I keep track of how my former teammates are doing. They’re having a great season. The team is very young and talented this season. I hope they make the playoffs.
– Did you have a chance to stay in Philadelphia and be part of “The Process?”
– I don’t want to look back right now. Last summer I made the decision to join CSKA and I don’t regret anything. I have no complaints.
– You may have the best-looking beard in the VTB League. Has anybody ever tried to get you to gamble your beard on something? Maybe after winning the VTB United League and EuroLeague?
– I don’t see a reason to cut it. I like it. I’ve had a beard for six years, so even winning the VTB United League and EuroLeague wouldn’t make me do it. There might be some power in the beard!
– You’ve been in Moscow for six months. How do you like the city?
– Russian weather is very unique, but I like Moscow. I’m glad I live here. It’s a very pretty city and there are always new places to go. I like to walk around the center of the city, go out to eat, go shopping and enjoy new cultural experiences. I’ve been a lot of places, but I still have more to learn about Moscow.
– What does your family think about the harsh Russian climate?
– The family adjusted. We’re happy with the city and the climate, even though it’s a new experience for us. Last year in Philadelphia was also pretty cold, but of course not as cold as Moscow.
