Bartzokas: “It was a fantastic night for us” (VID)
Giorgos Bartzokas commented the following the press conference after the end of Olympiacos’ Game 2 win against Monaco in the EuroLeague Playoffs:
“I would like to congratulate our players and our fans. It was a fantastic night for us. We needed to win this game. The second game is always crucial. We were solid offensively and defensively; especially in the second and fourth quarters we were very good. On the other hand, we must also acknowledge the fact that the very talented Monaco lost both Mike James and Daniel Theis during the game, and of course it was difficult for them to keep up with the pace with a reduced roster, while we were playing with 12 players.”
When asked what example he would use ahead of Game 3 to keep his players focused, Bartzokas said: “It will take focus. I don’t think any of our players believe that there is an easy playoff game. I think we have depth and readiness from all the players who are selected to play. Even if some of them don't have the same performance from game to game, they show readiness to play the game the way it needs to be played. I won’t give a specific example now. The example with Siena was very characteristic. But what we need to do now is win the next game, because that has to be our goal; not to think that we have 3 games to get the one win we need. What we must do is focus on the game in Monte Carlo, win it, and go to the Final Four.”
On what today’s atmosphere at the SEF reminded him of, the coach said: “It’s not really my concern who comes to watch us. It honors us that they come, but if I were to mention someone, it would be coach Mendilibar, whom I particularly appreciate. Everyone else who comes is a joy for us and, of course, an honor for Olympiacos. As for the atmosphere you mention, I’ve seen things like this before because I’ve been around a long time. I don’t think there’s any doubt; everyone here knows that Olympiacos fans are by far the best.”
When asked what is preferable for a team before the Final Four, rest or game rhythm, Bartzokas said: “I don’t know how to answer that. I read an analysis saying it wouldn’t benefit Olympiacos to go 3–0 into the Final Four. So, what are we supposed to do; lose on purpose? I read the headlines, but I can’t get into that way of thinking. Our job is to win every game we play. If we start thinking about not finishing first or not closing the series in 3 games… Right now, everyone who expresses an opinion in basketball can be both right and wrong, because they speak from a safe distance. There is no other philosophy here except that we must win the next game, and whatever comes, we will deal with it.”
You can find the full press conference in the VIDEO below.
