Bartzokas: “We should have been more patient at the end” (Vid)
Giorgios Bartzokas commented the following at the press conference following our team's defeat to Fenerbahce.
“First of all, a big thank you to our fans, who created this atmosphere and helped us a great deal throughout the game. Obviously, I cannot complain about the effort our players put in. We had several key players missing from the perimeter, so we made some adjustments defensively and offensively to cover those absences. We controlled the game and were ahead for almost its entire duration, from start to finish, but we needed to close it out the right way. We should have been more patient, avoided those mistakes, executed our plays with patience and not allowed our emotions to dictate our rhythm.”
Asked what went wrong towards the end of the first half, Bartzokas said: “In the second quarter, we made just 1 of 7 free throws, while towards the end we gave our opponents 4 free throws for no reason. At the same time, we conceded two three-pointers on plays where we did not defend properly. These details played a decisive role in the outcome of the game. Offensively, we moved the ball well and created the opportunities we wanted. In the second half, however, I don't know whether fatigue played a part, but we lost our rhythm. We stopped moving the ball at the same speed and ended up taking difficult, heavily contested shots. Unfortunately, that cost us. When the lead dropped to 10 points, we failed to extend it further. On one or two possessions, Fenerbahce came out on top. That is the reality of the EuroLeague: the schedule is extremely demanding, and the injuries we have been dealing with have affected us. Nevertheless, we are not going to change our approach. We will continue working with the same philosophy so that we can perform the way we should.”
Regarding the signing of Konchar and the team's defensive commitment, the coach said: “We believe Konchar is a player who can effectively connect different aspects of the game and help us significantly. Today, however, we had several absences that limited our options. In the first half, we were focused defensively and showed energy and intensity. Towards the end, though, I believe fatigue affected our concentration. We needed more options off the bench, while Ward's 4 fouls changed the balance and affected our rotation. I would also like to mention Mbaye Ndiaye and thank him. Despite being affected by the loss of his father, he did not miss training sessions and rose to the occasion, conducting himself with complete professionalism. That deserves everyone's respect.”
Watch the full press conference in the VIDEO below.
