Vladyslav Mustiatsa (196-F-2002) is a 22 year old 196cm guard playing with with ABC Leii Bucuresti (Romania-Liga I). He began hjs basketball career with BIPA Odessa. He then got experience playing with Vis Reggio Calabria (Italy-Serie Cthen moved to Leonardo Servizi Dany Quarrata (Italy-Serie C) and with 4: Consorzio Leonardo Quarrata (Italy-Serie B Interregionale). He spoke to germanhoops.com after scoring 54 points against ACS Bucuresti.

Thanks Vladyslav for talking to germanhoops.com. Your playing your first season with ABC Leii Bucuresti (Romania-Liga I). What kind of an experience has it been playing in the 2rd division in Romania.

Thank you for having me! Playing my first season with ABC Leii Bucuresti has been an incredible experience. The Liga I is the second Romanian league, the level of competition is strong enough, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to showcase my game here. It’s been a chance to adapt to a new basketball culture, contribute to my team, and push myself to improve every day.

You left your homeland Ukraine when the war broke out and played 2 seasons in Italy and now Romania. Was it a tough decision to leave your country and family and friends?

Leaving the Ukraine was one of the hardest decisions of my life. My heart is always with my country, my family, and friends, and not a day goes by without thinking about them. But given the circumstances, I knew I had to make this decision not just to continue my career but also to stay safe and support my loved ones from afar. It’s never easy, but basketball has been a way to cope and keep moving forward.

Is it tough mentally to be playing in other countries with so much has happened in the Ukraine? Do you see it as life goes on and I have to earn a living?

It’s very tough mentally. Knowing what’s happening back home can weigh heavily on me, especially when I hear news or updates from family and friends. But at the same time, I know I have a responsibility to myself and my family to continue my career and build a future. Life does go on, even in the hardest times, and basketball has given me the structure and purpose I need to keep going.

You came from Kyiv and your living in Bucuresti. Does that big city feeling in Romania remind you a bit of home?

Yes, absolutely. Bucharest has that vibrant, bustling energy that reminds me of Odesa. The architecture, the people, and the pace of life here have similarities that make me feel more at home. Of course, Odesa will always be my true home, but Bucharest has welcomed me warmly, and I’m grateful for that.

Your having an amazing season in Romania averaging 28/12/4/3 stats. Has this versatility and explosive play surprised you a bit? What does it feel like having scored 50* points? Not many pro players can say they have done that?

Thank you! Honestly, I always believed in my ability to be a versatile player, but seeing these numbers does give me extra confidence. Scoring over 50 points was an incredible feeling—it’s one of those moments where everything just clicks, and you’re in the zone. It’s something I’ll never forget and a reminder of what I’m capable of when I’m locked in.

How many text messages did you get from people in the days following the game?

Honestly, I didn’t get that many messages. There were a few from close friends and family congratulating me, but it wasn’t overwhelming. For me, it’s not about the number of messages—it’s about knowing I gave my best and made those who support me proud.

How quickly did you know in the game that you might have an incredible game?

I’d say it was by the second quarter when I already had a good rhythm going. After the first half, coach told me in the locker room, “You’ve already scored 31, that’s probably a record.” And I just went with the flow.

You shot 19/29. Was this one of those games where you felt like every shot you took felt like it would go in?

Yes, 100%. It was one of those rare games where the basket feels huge, and every move you make seems to work. I trusted my preparation and instincts, and it all came together that night.

Did you know in the fourth quarter that you were near 50 points? Did your teammates tell you you were near 50 points?

I had an idea, but I wasn’t focused on the numbers during the game. My teammates definitely made sure I knew as we got closer to the end. Their energy and encouragement pushed me to keep going and finish strong.

You scored 54 points, but you also showed your immense versatility with a triple double. Was that the first triple double in your basketball career?

It wasn’t my first, but it was definitely the most special. Combining a triple-double with a career-high in a single game is something I’m very proud of. It shows the complete game I strive to bring every time I step on the court.

Do you feel like a game like this will get you noticed from higher leagues?

I hope so. A performance like this definitely grabs attention, and I’m always working to prove that I belong at the highest levels. My goal is to keep growing as a player and take my game to the top leagues in Europe and beyond.

What was your favorite own basket of the game?

.Definitely the last shot after which I felt the incredible support of our fans as I walked off the field. That game was special. Everything just came together for me and the team. It’s one of those performances that reminds you why you love the game.

You played the last 2 seasons in Italy. What kind of an experience was that for you and how did your game grow?

Playing in Italy was a fantastic experience. The competition was tough, and it really pushed me to develop my skills, especially in terms of decision-making and physicality. It also taught me how to adapt to different basketball styles, which has helped me become a more complete player.

You won the title with BIPA Odessa (Higher League) in 2021. What was so special about that team?

That team had incredible chemistry. We trusted each other completely, and everyone knew their role. Winning the title with them was one of the best moments of my career. At that time, we had experienced professionals in our team from whom I learned a lot

In the last years there have been Ukraine players play in Germany. Would Germany be a place where you would like to play?

Absolutely. Germany has a very strong league, and it would be an honor to play there. The Bundesliga is highly competitive, and it would be a great opportunity to continue growing and testing myself at a high level.

Who was the toughest player that you ever faced that reached the NBA or Euroleague or other high leagues?

.At a young age we had a very competitive championship, many players from which are now playing at the highest level in Europe and America

What is your NBA Mount Rushmore and Euro Rushmore. Please list your 4 best players of all-time form the NBA and Europe?

NBA: • Michael Jordan • LeBron James • Kobe Bryant • Stephen Curry Europe: • Dražen Petrovic • Dirk Nowitzki • Arvydas Sabonis • Vassilis Spanoulis

Who is your GOAT?

Lebron James. He’s a role model for me in the world of basketball. His versatility, his professionalism, how long and at what level he’s been playing.

Thanks Vladyslav for the chat.