Johnathan Motley: I’ve enjoyed every moment being over here playing so far

Lokomotiv Kuban power forward Johnathan Motley talks about his first part of the season in Eurocup.

"I think I’m headed in the right direction," Motley said. "I like the way the game has been for me. I really want to try and stay out of foul trouble and rebound a little more, but other than that I think I’m playing good basketball so far."

On the decision to leave the NBA

"I just got tired of sitting on the bench. It felt like I was rotting away and while I’m still young I just want to enjoy playing the game of basketball again," he said. "The NBA is very tough if you’re not in the rotation every night. It takes a toll mentally."

"I figured if I left and had a legit role it would make me happier long term, and so far, it has been true," he said. "I’ve enjoyed every moment being over here playing so far. Hopefully, I can keep playing well and the team will continue to have success."

"I wanted to prove to myself that I can dominate anywhere," he said. "I chose Loko because I knew they were a good stepping-stone club. A lot of players who play here have the opportunity to jump up to high ranks. I also loved the coach’s playing style, and I thought it would benefit the way I play, which it has so far. So I think I made a good choice”.