Earlier in the year, we reported from LHospitalet about a certain feeling of disappointment with the evolution of Zavoruevs game, that hadnt developed as much as others, such as teammates like
Yaroslav Korolev or
Maxim Sheleketo, while raising doubts about how he would fare against superior competition. Well, although still a junior, this was actually superior competition for him, and sharing the leader spot in Russia with Korolev, Vasily was one of the best scorers of the tournament (fourth overall) and surely a bright presence on court.
Arguably the best shooter in Belgrade, no player featured such a magnificent stroke from anywhere on court, while still remaining consistent gunning off the dribble. Indeed, he perhaps abused his jumper at times (he tried more treys than two-point shots), but who could blame him? His accuracy speaks for itself: 60% in two pointers, 40.7% in three-pointers. If he decides to shoot, its not easy to stop him, as he enjoys a fairly quick and high release of the ball, also with NBA range. He doesnt feel intimidated having a rival close to him, just proceeding with his good mechanics. His poor free-throw percentages are highly surprising, though. You would expect that this kind of player would be automatic from the line.
Zavoruev is also effective putting the ball on the floor to penetrate. He has a nice first step and good footwork to drive in traffic. However, I still think he may suffer trying to finish this slashing plays against top competition, given his size and less than stellar athleticism, although he knows how to dish the ball to an open mate, as well as stop mid-way towards the basket to release a mid-range jump-shot. All in all, I think there are good chances that he becomes more of a shooting specialist once he starts playing against men.
On defense, hes rather quick in the lateral movement department, so he doesnt have too many problems at this level.
Zavoruev is bound to become a very good player in Europe, and very few people have any doubt about that. However, I still dont see his NBA future crystal clear. Hes slightly undersized and not a freak athlete. He looks like the kind of player than will need to prove his value in Europe before getting great consideration from the American League.
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