Career: Tolyatti (Russia-Higherleague, 2003-04), BC Khimki Moscow Region (Russia-Superleague, 2004-07)

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The rise to fame of this late bloomer began in May 2005 when, in the Superleague playoffs first round, Vitaly Fridzon played only his second game for the senior team. Since then, he has never looked back. In June, along with Nikita Shabalkin and Anton Ponkrashov, Fridzon was among the leaders of the triumphant U20 team that celebrated the long-awaited win of the European crown. Moreover, two months later, Vitaly made a perfect EuroBasket debut and established himself as, probably, the most intriguing Russian shooting guard prospect. A true warrior with a tireless drive and energy which can sometimes cause silly turnovers and fouls, Fridzon leaves it all out on the floor. He is a rare example of a player who loves the game with all his heart.