CSKA Moscow’s Nikita Kurbanov Reflects on Management Change, Playoff Form, and International Context
CSKA Moscow forward Nikita Kurbanov discussed the team’s direction in a candid interview, highlighting how a mid-season managerial shift may have energized the squad ahead of the VTB United League playoffs. The change, implemented before the playoff series began, appears to have sparked a renewed sense of purpose and focus among the players, with Kurbanov noting tangible improvements in performance and morale.
Speaking in measured terms, Kurbanov emphasized the importance of sustaining momentum. “We have done a good job and we see that the changes are bringing good results. I don’t want to go into details, but I think everyone is happy now. We will try to maintain the attitude we had in the first match of the play-offs,” he said. His remarks reflect a team-wide commitment to consistency and competitive intensity as they advance through the post-season schedule.
Looking at the regular season, CSKA posted a strong record with 25 wins in 36 games, securing third place in Group A. In the opening round of the playoffs, CSKA faced Krasnoyarsk Yenisei, and the first matchup showcased the club’s depth and experience, delivering a convincing 96-68 victory that set the tone for the series. The result underscored CSKA’s readiness to contest the deeper rounds of the competition and showcased the collective efficiency of their system under pressure.
Beyond club basketball, the broader international landscape has shaped the sport’s competitive flow. In late February 2022, the International Olympic Committee issued guidance encouraging international sports federations to restrict participation by athletes from Russia and Belarus in global competitions. This policy move was soon echoed by the International Basketball Federation, which supported the stance. The consequence for national teams, including Russia’s men’s and women’s squads, was significant, contributing to their absence from the 2023 World Cup and altering the balance of international competition for the year ahead. This development illustrates how geopolitical decisions can intersect with professional leagues, influencing player availability and team planning across the globe. — IOC and FIBA statements are part of the broader context that teams like CSKA Moscow monitor as they navigate the season.
There is also a note on the club’s international footprint. A Canadian-associated connection to CSKA Moscow has been mentioned in media discourse, reflecting the team’s global reach and the appeal of Moscow as a destination for professional athletes and staff. Such cross-border ties highlight how top-tier clubs attract a diverse roster and support network, reinforcing CSKA Moscow’s reputation as a destination for elite basketball talent and an active hub within the international basketball community. These narratives illustrate the broader context in which the club operates, both on and off the court.