After his excellent performance against Real Madrid, Shaquielle McKissic is getting ready for another big game against Hapoel Tel Aviv. Shortly before Olympiacos’ trip to Sofia, he spoke to olympiacosbc.gr about the penultimate Regular Season game and more.
Let’s start with yesterday. What was going through your mind during Real’s 18–0 run? You were the one who essentially “woke up” Olympiacos at that moment.
“It was several possessions where we weren’t getting anything. When I got the ball and Sasha found me in the corner, I knew it was a basket and a foul, so I dunked it. From that moment, the energy of the whole arena skyrocketed.”
This season, Olympiacos has a 15/20 record (75%) in the games you’ve played. Have you realized how important you are to the team this year?
“For some players, it’s very important to stand out in the Regular Season, and I remember that in my first 6–7 years it was the same for me. But now everything is about winning. So, when it’s time to get wins, in the Playoffs and big games, that’s the period I love the most. That’s when the cream rises to the top and the best stand out. I live for those moments. Now every game matters more, and I wake up in the morning with a different motivation.”
Speaking of this stage, how does it feel to be first after such a long journey?
“I was absent in many games and missed a long period of time, so for me there was a lot of stress watching the team from the outside. Now I have to bring as much energy as possible to make things easier for them. When we go through a bad stretch, like yesterday, it’s good for them to know I’ll be there to give them a breather.”
Regarding Hapoel Tel Aviv, what are your thoughts on their season?
“They had a very strong start until Elijah Bryant got injured. I think it was similar to Lessort’s absence at Panathinaikos. When Bryant returned, the team’s dynamic changed again. At the same time, they have a very deep roster, they’re talented, and it’s clear they’re hungry and want to prove things.”
In Sofia, we’ll probably have the biggest away crowd of the season. What message would you like to send for this game?
“I hope Sasha goes to his parental country and has the best game of his life! I really want that for him. Being able to play a EuroLeague game in your home country is incredible. This game feels like it was made for him; but he’s a team player, so we’ll see. If we play well and he finds his rhythm, I’ll look to facilitate for him again, just like I did yesterday with Dorsey!”
