Astana-Zhastar has officially begun pre-season training for the 2025/2026 season. This year, the team is led by head coach Yakov Fokin, with Mikhail Lonshakov appointed as assistant coach. The roster features six new players, and several existing contracts have been extended.
Yakov Fokin, Head Coach of Astana-Zhastar, shared his thoughts:
“The first training session went pretty much as expected. Naturally, not everyone is in peak condition — some have been preparing more actively than others — but overall, it’s a promising start. We’re feeling optimistic. It’s only been the first 90 minutes on the court, and now the real work begins — building team chemistry and a solid dynamic. That’s not something that comes together in a day — it takes time.”
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Sayan Mamutov, point guard for Astana-Zhastar, added:
“I was welcomed warmly by the team — I’ve just arrived, and today was my first training session. Everything went great — I already knew a few of the guys, so settling in has been pretty smooth. The move hasn’t caused any issues so far, and I’m confident things will come together well. I haven’t had the chance to get to know everyone just yet, but my first impressions are definitely positive.”
