Bulgarian national Alex Nikolov continues to write a strong page in his career in the Italian SuperLega Credem Banca. The outside hitter for Cucine Lube Civitanova was awarded the MVP of February award, after a series of impressive matches both at the end of the regular season and at the start of the playoffs.
The son of legend Vladimir Nikolov once again showed why he has become one of Lube's most valuable players. The Bulgarian was chosen as the most valuable player in two regular season matches – against Rana Verona and Cisterna, and just days ago played a key role in Game 1 of the quarterfinal series against Itas Trentino, won by the team from Civitanova.
This is Nikolov's second award this season, as he was also named MVP of the month in the Italian elite in October.
Alex Nikolov's statistics in February
| Category | Count |
|---|---|
| Total points | 92 |
| Attack points | 81 |
| Aces | 5 |
| Blocks | 6 |
The numbers clearly show the significant impact of the Bulgarian on Lube's game. The vast majority of his points come from attack, making him the team's primary scoring option. At the same time, he also contributes with serves and blocks, which completes his profile as a versatile outside hitter.
Top scorer in the regular season
Even more impressively, throughout the entire regular season, Nikolov scored 450 points, which earned him first place among scorers in the SuperLega. This is a serious recognition in one of the strongest leagues in the world and further proof of the young Bulgarian's rapid development.
The award will be presented before the playoff clash
The MVP of February award will be officially presented before Game 2 of the quarterfinal series between Cucine Lube Civitanova and Itas Trentino.
Following their success in the first match, Lube's team leads the series 1-0.
For Nikolov, this is another strong achievement on the international stage. Just 6 months ago, he became the top scorer at the World Championship in Manila, and now he is solidifying his status as one of the new big stars of European volleyball.
If he maintains his current form, the Bulgarian could prove to be one of the key factors in Lube's push towards the Italian playoff finals.
photos: Nikolay Varadinov
