Despite recent losses to Herb Sendek's staff, Egor Koulechov (’94) remains committed to Arizona State's 2013 recruiting class. We talked to 6-5 Israeli guard. “I decided to come over to the US because it is the best place to learn and play basketball, you have to learn from the best to be the best. Second of all, my dream since 8th grade was to play college basketball in the US” - Koulechov explains his decision to Eurohopes staff.
Koulechov competed for Israel in the 18-Under European Championships last summer. In Division B, he averaged 19.8 points (second in the division), 7.9 rebounds (10th) and 2.6 steals (first). Last season, the Russian-born Koulechov averaged 16.2 points and seven rebounds, shooting 39.1 percent from 3-point range. He chose ASU over Rutgers, Richmond, Providence, Alabama-Birmingham and others.
Why did you decide to come over to US and continue your basketball improvement through NCAA? Do you think it is a good way to improve skills?
- I decided to come over to the US because it is the best place to learn and play basketball, you have to learn from the best to be the best. Second of all, my dream since 8th grade was to play college basketball in the US. I think it is a great way to improve my basketball skills, and mature as a player and a person before going and play pro basketball.
You had a brilliant European Championship U18 Division. What are your memories back to the tournament? Was is it a good experience for yourself?
- My memories from the championship are the ones when you just spend a lot of great time with your teammates and the game I scored 33 points. The European Championship is always a good experience to be a part of and learn from. Of course I hoped that we will return to Division A this year, but it didn’t happen.
Which position is your favorite one? Could you play on both wing positions or do you see yourself only as a face-up small forward?
- My favorite position is the SG spot. I do play on both wing position and bring the ball up when needed, not only a face-up small forward as I used to be.
Why did you decide to commit Arizona State? Was there any hesitation in your mind due to some major changes in ASU's coaching staff?
- I decided to commit to the school because it is a great fit for me. I loved the coaching staff there and there was never hesitation in my mind when the coaching staff changed. I met the new coaching staff and they are also great, experienced and very professional, came from the NBA. I also liked the new facilities, but the most important part is that I have a great opportunity to play big minutes my freshman year.
Photo: sun-sentinel.com
