Alan Williams speaks on EuroLeague’s MVP favorite, Mudiay’s potential in Europe and Kalnietis influence / News - Basketnews.com

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Zalgiris Kaunas was visiting the Gloria Cup tournament in Turkey, and Lithuanian champions met many familiar faces. One of them was Lokomotiv Kuban Krasnodar forward Alan Williams.

Mantas Kalnietis

Team:LithuaniaLokomotiv KrasnodarPosition:PGAge:35Height:196 cmWeight:89 kgBirth place:Kaunas, LithuaniaProfileNewsStatistics

The American forward took time and sat with the Zalgiris TV crew with whom he spoke about Mantas Kalnietis influence, Russian saunas, and many other things.

“Mantas helped me a lot,” Williams said. “He was the main reason why I played last season how I did. My career wouldn’t be the same without him.”

Last season, Williams averaged 14.5 points and 12.5 rebounds in 7DAYS EuroCup.

Lokomotiv forward also revealed that during his time in Krasnodar, he found out about Russian saunas and fell in love with them.

“I love Russian sauna. I think Vitaly Fridzon showed them to me. At first, it was a weird experience because you don’t know what it is and what to expect. Of course, there are places in the US where you are getting a massage or something, but I never went to a place where you can find herbs, tea and they’re hitting you with leaves.

At first, it was weird, but soon it became part of my regime. I went every single week, whether it was with Mantas or Minda (Mindaugas Kuzminskas),” said Williams.

Williams was also asked about Zalgiris newcomer Emmanuel Mudiay. Lokomotiv forward thinks it may take some time, but eventually, Mudiay should become a solid piece for Lithuanian champions.

“I think that Emmanuel has a very strong body and ability to drive to the basket,” Williams said. “He has a good court vision. Obviously, it might take time to adapt because he will be playing in Europe for the first time. I think you’ll be enjoying his basketball and what he will give to the team in every game.”

Finally, Williams was also asked about his former teammate in the Brooklyn Nets and current Zenit Saint Petersburg guard Shabazz Napier. As Lokomotiv forward said, he wouldn’t be surprised if Napier took the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague MVP award.

“Shabazz is one of the tougher competitors I’ve ever played or seen. I’ll say it now: he has a good chance of being EuroLeague MVP. Just from what he brings to the table and how good that team is this year,” Williams finished.

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