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Bartzokas: «Congratulations to the fans and the players» (vid)

The coach of Olympiacos, Giorgos Bartzokas, said the win over Efes to be the product of his team’s good defensive game and did not omit to congratulate not only his players but also the fans that once again completely packed the SEF.

“It was a very demanding game, against the European Champion, a very talented team and everyone had to do something more tonight and contribute with our defensive game, which we did on a consistent basis. I think that our defense was solid tonight and had we better percentages in free throws and threes, especially with our open ones, we would have won easier. Nevertheless, I have to congratulate my players but also the fans for once again creating a great atmosphere in our gym. I wish Efes good luck”.

Asked about Michalis Lountzis’ performance, he said: “I don’t believe in 12th players. I’ve said it many times before. Everyone gets their chance, especially within a 12 men roster. We don’t have 17 or 18. Other teams have that many contracts. Everyone gets their chance, the thing is to be ready to play. There are quite a few players that in their mind, not in mine, have had a complimentary role and they are now play an important one in order for the team to win games. For the team and for them, this is very important. Michalis did a fantastic job tonight in defense, but he has had a significant offensive contribution as well”.

Efes’ coach, Ergin Ataman, commented the following: “I suffered in the bench watching the game, and I believe that many people, even Greeks, Olympiacos’ fans, suffered as well. Tonight, the level of basketball was tragic. Both teams played bad. But, I want to congratulate Lountzis, who up to not was averaging one point and sometimes wasn’t even on the roster. Tonight though, with Sloukas absent, he did a tremendous job for Olympiacos. Of course Vezenkov made some difficult shots also in the second half. On our part, it’s very hard to understand why we made such a bad beginning. Two minutes into the game, the score was 8-0. We weren’t focused and despite playing a tragic game, we won the second and fourth quarters. But we played really bad in the first one. It was a tragic night for us offense wise. I congratulate my team for their performance in the fourth quarter after trailing by 15, because they did not give up and fought to get back into the game. But we got nothing from our key players. Everyone says that we have exceptionally good offensive players, but the core players should be playing well in these games, not in the Turkish league one, against weak teams. I’m talking about Clyburn and Micic. We are not in a good place right now in the Euroleague”.