Interview with Keith Langford 5  september  2009

Eurobasket.com
American guard Keith Langford (193-G/F-83, college: Kansas) signed a contract with BC Khimky Moscow Region. After impressive season at Virtus he decided to move East to be a part of Euroleague team. He was very kind to answer some of the questions to Stanislav Tyutyunnik from Eurobasket.com in this interview.

When and why did you start playing ball, who inspired you?
-I started playing when I was about 11. I was a lot more into football but all of my friends were going to try out for the Jr. high basketball team and I didnt want to be the only one left out. Both of my parents were college basketball players so the curiosity came from them as well.

What would you say was the best moments you have had in your basketball career so far?
-Being named to the all final four team in 2003 alongside Dwayne Wade Carmelo Anthony, Kirk Hinrich, and Nick Collison who are all top NBA players now. Also being called up to the San Antonio Spurs and scoring my first regular season basket and winning the MVP of the 2009 Eurochallenge

What it's like to play basketball overseas? Do you want to come back and play in USA again after your current contract will expire?
-I enjoy the challenge of it because not everybody can do it. You see NBA players come overseas and get released from teams all the time. Its a place where guys who play the game the right way can really be rewarded.
Only if I make more than what Im currently making now. But really at this point in my career its about actually being able to play rather than sitting on the bench and cheering for the team.

What's the main reason of moving to Russia?
-I was actually ready to return to Virtus, but Sabitini allowed my contract to be bought out. I guess it worked out better for both sides.

How would you describe your role on the team?
-Before Garbojosa, Delfino, and Palacio left the team I was prepared to come off the bench like I did at Virtus. I imagine now that my role will increase more but ultimately it will be decided by our coach.

Who are the opposition players you will be keeping a close eye on in the Superleague this season?
-The only players I pay attention to are my teammates.

Are there any players that you try to model your game after?
-I've tried in the past but its difficult because Im left handed. Theres not a lot of left handed players to really study and watch. Although I was a big Jalen Rose fan.

What are your biggest strengths as a guard?
-I feel like I can do a wide variety of things on the court. Whether its drive to the basket, block shots, take a charge. Just overall versatility.

What about your weak sides?
-I really have to focus on staying aggressive for the entire 40 minutes of the game

What aspect of the game do you enjoy most?
-I love the competition. I love being tougher than somebody else. A lot of people like to play pretty basketball but for me the best time is when its ugly.

What does Keith Langford do outside of basketball, and what are your aims for the future?
-My girlfriend takes up most of my time, but I try to sneak in a few games of playstation. As for my future, I want to be one of the best know American international players out there.

Where we can find you on Web — do you like social networks, maybe twitter?
-I was on twitter until the bitter split in Bologna, but now I think Ill give it another shot in Moscow.
Source http://www.eurobasket.com/Russia/basketball.asp?NewsID=17...

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