Taylor Rochestie took his game to another level against UNICS, guiding Lokomotiv-Kuban to a comeback 3-1 series win. In an interview with VTB-League.com, he looks back on his last trip to the VTB United League finals with Nizhny, thanks the Krasnodar fans for their loyalty and promises to start doing trick shots again soon.
– Almost none of the fans believe you can beat CSKA. How do you react to that?
– That’s totally normal for some clubs to get written off from the start, but we don’t worry about anything outside the locker room. The only thing we’re worried about–from the players to the coaches and front office–is getting ready for the upcoming semifinal series, where we want to play our best basketball.
– Does playing CSKA after the EuroLeague Final Four give you an advantage?
– I wouldn’t say so. The Army Men have a great selection of players, a deep bench, plus they are playing in the Final Four for the 14th time in 15 seasons, so they know what it’s like playing several tough games in a row.
– Loko beat CSKA at home in December, but you didn’t play. Do you remember the game?
– Yes, of course. I was at the Basket Hall. I think the fans and players remember because beating CSKA, even at home, is a big deal. That game showed once again that the Army Men can be beat.
– You scored 79 points in four games against UNICS in the quarterfinals. Why do you think you put up so many points?
– It’s really easy. My coaches and teammates believed in me. When you’re hitting shots and get on a roll, your teammates try to get you the ball more and your coach gives you more playing time. That’s what happened in the series with UNICS.
– You reached the League finals with Nizhny Novgorod a few years back. Do you often remember that period?
– Yes, of course. I’ll never forget the time I spent in Nizhny Novgorod. It was an incredible experience! I still remember the wonderful Nizhny Novgorod fans and our big wins.
– When you signed with Loko, how much of a difference did it make that there are several ex-Nizhny players–Khvostov, Baburin, Ivlev–on the team?
– It was important. Before signing the contract, I got in touch with Dmitry Khvostov. He told me about the city and team. After that, I decided to continue my career in Krasnodar. I quickly adapted to my new club and that had a good impact on the team chemistry.
– Vladimir Ivlev took #10 again. Did you try to buy the number from him like you did in Nizhny?
– No, not a second time (laughs).
– Who do you spend the most time with on the team?
– I can’t single out anyone in particular. We’re a team. Everybody, from players to coaches and team executives, is always happy to help. We have a wonderful atmosphere, which is why I hang out with everybody equally.
– What was your favorite moment from the VTB United League season?
– Any Lokomotiv-Kuban home game and taking the court with some awesome guys and the fans showing incredible support!
– You played in the first-ever VTB United League All-Star Game. What were your impressions?
– It was really nice to make the World team! The entire day was very interesting. They had an awesome presentation of the players before the game, featuring one of Russia’s popular entertainers. The game and the different skills contests were great. Of course, I have to mention the huge number of fans that created an unbelievable atmosphere.
– Krasnodar is a very warm city. Is it a nicer place to live than Nizhny Novgorod?
– Of course, the weather in Krasnodar is great, but weather isn’t that big of a deal for me or my family. We liked living in Nizhny Novgorod, too, and in many of the cities where I’ve played before.
– What’s unique about Krasnodar?
– There are always a lot of people outside!
– What about the famous Kuban borscht? Have you tried it?
– Yeah, of course (laughs). That’s the first thing I tried after moving to Krasnodar!
– What do you like most about Russia?
– The variety of cities and nature. It can be tough to get a visa to Russia and no one wants to spend so much time in a plane, but it’s worth it!
– You’ve lived in Krasnodar for almost a year. Do fans recognize you on the street?
– They do, but not as much as the other players. I’m not as tall and don’t stick out in a crowd.
– What do you like to do in your free time?
– I like to explore the city and I’m always trying out new restaurants in Krasnodar.
– What about your trick shots? Aren’t you doing them anymore?
– Oh, you’re not the first or the last person to ask that question! I’ll definitely do them again, since fans are always asking me to do something special.
– Is it true that you’re getting married in the summer? Where’s it going to be?
– Yes, I’ll be a married man in July. Our wedding’s going to be in Le Mans, France.
– After the wedding, the European championships are in September. Are you thinking about playing for Montenegro again?
– I don’t think I’ll join the national team this year, but I also don’t want to talk about retiring from the national team yet. I might be able to play for Montenegro again in the future.
– You’re 31. Do you feel like a veteran?
– Not at all. It’s probably the reverse. This is one of the best moments of my career. My body is in great shape and the experience I’ve received in recent seasons makes me more confident on the court and a better decision maker.
– Have you thought about what you’ll do when you retire?
– Not yet. Since I was five, I only wanted to play basketball and I’m still doing what I love.
– Who are you going to support at the EuroLeague Final Four?
– Unlike a lot of people, I’m not cheering for a specific team, but rather guys I’ve had a chance to play with in the past. Hopefully the best team wins.
