"Tough and focused"
Olympiacos will be playing against Panathinaikos at the OAKA tomorrow (6/12, 20.30 CET) and according to our team's coach, Kestutis Kemzura, there are two elements that are going to determine the result. "For me, even before tactics and strategy, focus and toughness come first".
Asked about the hot atmosphere he's going to be facing at the OAKA and whether he's prepared for it, he replied: "I think that there's always a possibility that something can go wrong, however, I try to focus only on the things that I can control".
About the "greens" and their game characteristics, he said: "Panathinaikos has been playing good basketball lately, just like we have. They have the best offense of the Euroleague and we shall have to do an excellent job to contain them. Fast breaks are their game, as well as transition and quick pick n' rolls and it will be a huge challenge to stop them in these categories. All of these nevertheless, are connected together and connect defense to offense. If we turn the ball over and take bad shots, then our opponent is going to have more opportunities and things are going to be harder for us. But if we play focused, avoid turnovers and shoot well, then it's going to be easy to control the game. So all of that are connected. They have great players, just like we do. It's not anything new. Calathes is a key-player. He facilitates and scores. The basic thing however, is that he facilitates for his team mates, so if we contain him, then are chances are good".
About Rick Pitino's "beloved" deflections and on how his players are going to steer clear of them, he commented: "We shall have to be more careful with the ball, to make good screens and pass the ball more carefully. We also want to be doing the same thing. We know the deflections' worth, just like they do".
On his part, Brandon Paul pointed out: "I want to be ready for the first derby of my career. The rivalry is huge. I have watched games in the past, given that I had been playing for the Euroleague a few years ago. It's going to be an exciting game. I'm ready to get in and do the best I can so that my team plays its best game. Obviously, if perimeter shots go in, our chances to win are going to be better".
On whether the team veterans gave him some advice, he made clear that… "No… they know that I know about these games, I'm a professional. I will simply come out ready to play and do the best I can for my team".