Zaur Pashayev, the former player of the Azerbaijan national basketball team, spoke to Offsideplus.az.

- A few days ago, you announced your retirement. Was age the main factor in this decision, or were there other reasons?

- The main reason for my decision is related to age. I am 43 years old. In fact, I still want to play, but at this age, one feels a bit embarrassed. Moreover, younger players are coming into the team. I could still play, even if not for 40 minutes, I could help the team for 12-15 minutes. However, I want to start my coaching career now. That's why I decided it's enough.

- How would you characterise your last season as a player?

- I didn't have a bad last season. I was selected as the MVP among Azerbaijani basketball players. If I had continued this year, I could have been of certain benefit to the team.

- What are your plans for the future?

- I want to build a high-level, professional coaching career. I have been in basketball for years, and I want to be in good positions in coaching as well. Of course, playing is completely different, and coaching is entirely another. But I believe I can handle that too.

- Do you have any offers at the moment?

- Negotiations are ongoing. I might start working as an assistant coach at the "Nakhchivan" club. After a year of work, we will decide about the future. I want to start as a second coach first. Because previously, I have worked as a player-coach. My main goal is to become a head coach. Just as I always played in the "number one" position as a basketball player, I want to reach the highest level in coaching as well.

- Do you intend to continue your coaching career abroad in the future?

- As a basketball player, I lived as a legionnaire in Georgia and Ukraine. After I start coaching, if offers come from abroad, I will consider them. The main thing is to take the first step.