CSKA Moscow guard Milos Teodosic is arguably one of the front-runners for this season’s Euroleague MVP, and the Serbian admits that his role alongside backcourt partner Nando De Colo can only get better.
The Muscovites were downed by local rivals Khimki with a buzzer-beater from former CSKA guard Alexey Shved in week one of the Euroleague Top 16, but stormed back in convincing fashion against current holders Real Madrid. Teodesic hit 23 points while De Colo was sublime in his game-high 28, but it was the unselfishness that these two international players displayed, away from scoring that was a particular delight.
But it was both Teodesic and De Colo dished out seven assists with the Serb nicking the ball out of various Real Madrid hands four times that stood out as well as the vast points total.
“I have to say we definitely understand each other much better,” Teodosic explained. “Our roles are defined. Nando is a great player and it is a huge pleasure to be with him together on court.
“He can do everything on a basketball court and it seems to me [that] he is playing better and better every game.”
Certainly Teodosic looks more comfortable with his game this season. At times, he can be his own worst enemy and be a little temperamental but he is at ease this term. The presence of the French international certainly helps.
“His presence makes my job much easier, because the opponent’s defence has to pay much attention to Nando,” he says.
“As for learning, it is difficult to speak about some certain, specific details. I would say that we have a better understanding of our capabilities and skills. We know where to expect and find each other, in which spot on the court.”
The two players form has been a much needed blessing for CSKA Moscow, who lost nippy point guard Aaron Jackson in December to a severe concussion and a fractured cheekbone in a domestic game with Zenit St. Petersburg. His absence is missed, but his energy off the court is still felt by the team, not just the two that play in his position.
“Aaron is our best on-the-ball defender,” Teodosic said.
“He can change the rhythm of the game at the point guard position. We definitely miss him, I hope he will be able to get back on court soon, even when it will take time for him to get back into shape and become the Aaron Jackson everyone knows.
“Aaron is very hungry person, however, and he wants to play, he wants to win. He pushes each and every one of us even being off the court.”
Quotes by Javier Gancedo
