Walkup, Ward and Joseph on OlympiacosBC TV

Olympiacos secured their place in the final in emphatic fashion after defeating Fenerbahce in the semifinal and have now “locked in” their spot in Sunday’s title game.

 

Thomas Walkup, Tyson Ward, and Cory Joseph spoke to OlympiacosBC TV about the clash with the Turkish team, as well as what it will take to get the job done tomorrow (24/05).

Speaking about the semifinal, Thomas Walkup said: “It definitely was not an easy win. We suffered in order to get this victory. The score says one thing, but we worked all night long to build that difference. We played with self-sacrifice, toughness, and complete focus on every possession. The game was not easy. We fought for this result. Of course, our mission has not been accomplished yet. We still have another forty minutes, and that’s what we’re focused on now. Tonight we delivered a strong performance, especially defensively, and now we have to be ready for Sunday. And if we succeed on Sunday, then the job will be finished.” When asked which team could beat Olympiacos, he replied: “Only Olympiacos.”

Belief in coach Georgios Bartzokas and his game plan is the key message for Tyson Ward. “It’s the Final Four. Nothing is easy. We have to keep going and stay committed to the process, stay committed to Coach B and his philosophy, and continue to push… As Larry would say, the job is not finished yet.”

Cory Joseph credited the victory over Fenerbahce to Olympiacos’ defense. “We relied on our defense. We managed to limit them. They are a very good team, and it took forty minutes because they’re tough. We have to prepare and play well. We have a deep roster. But I feel like our defense was what got the job done tonight. We took a step in the right direction, but we need to get ready for Sunday, no matter which team we face.”