Dmytro Nahornyi, head coach of "Cherkasy Mavpy", has shared insights about his team's bronze medal finish in the 2024/25 season and outlined plans for the upcoming campaign during a recent interview.
"Considering the circumstances under which the team was formed, the average age of players and how pre-season preparation unfolded, bronze medals were our maximum potential," Nahornyi explained, though he added that results might have been better without Nazar Kholod's mid-season injury.
The coach identified the victory series against "Rivne" for third place as the team's greatest achievement this season. Interestingly, he pointed to unrealized opportunities against "Dnipro" as his biggest disappointment, noting the team came close to beating them three times throughout the season.
When discussing player contributions, Nahornyi avoided singling out individuals, preferring to thank everyone equally. However, he did highlight Andriy Agafonov for his role in creating and maintaining proper team chemistry.
Looking ahead, Nahornyi revealed work on forming next season's squad has already begun. The front line needs particular reinforcement, as opponent offensive rebounding was their biggest problem last season.
"I've realized from the previous season that friendly matches are the most important part of season preparation. They show which elements and interactions are worth implementing in the team's game philosophy," the coach stated.
The team plans to reconvene in late August, with Nahornyi envisioning a "more mature and stable" squad for the upcoming season. His main goal? "To achieve the maximum possible result!"
Nahornyi also offered a sobering assessment of Ukrainian club basketball's current state, describing it as unstable due to players changing careers, promising youth leaving the country, and financial challenges as sponsors direct funds toward the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
Despite these challenges, the coach expressed profound gratitude to fans who supported the team throughout the difficult season. "We play for you," he assured supporters, "and will make every effort to show even better basketball next season!"
Can the Mavpy improve on their bronze medal finish next season? With reinforcements planned for the front line and a more experienced squad, Nahornyi certainly seems to think so.
