By Eurohoops team/ info@eurohoops.net
The reigning Euroleague champions will face off against Olimpia Milano in the quarterfinals of the 2021-22 campaign and the challenger team’s coach Ettore Messina knows exactly who his squad is facing.
“It is the moment for which we have worked hard all year long, after another wonderful regular season that we are greatly satisfied with. Qualifying for the playoffs was our primary goal because we want to give consistency to our presence at these levels now and in the future. We face the European champions with great respect, knowing that the two wins achieved during the regular season must not deceive us, but at the same time, they can give us the confidence of knowing that there are probably things we can do well and can help us try to win this first game. Even if it’s a series, it will be important to mentally face one game at a time,” Messina noted.
Milano captain Nicolo Melli also praised Efes, pointing out both squads’ chemistry and teamplay.
“We are facing a team that has a lot of talent and experience. Efes is the reigning European champion and we know well that it is able to beat any opponent. But we can do the same, so I expect a nice series. They are a complete team, it’s not just a couple of great players, so we will have to help each other, knowing that the teams will decide this series.”
On the other hand, coach Ergin Ataman is looking for a strong start.
“We want to start the playoff series with a win. AX Armani Exchange Milan is a very disciplined team and playing smart basketball with Ettore Messina. In the first game of the series, we want to catch our rhythm with minimum turnovers and by controlling the rebounds we want to win the game.”
Bryant Dunston is well-aware of what Efes needs to do in order to win Game 1 and eventually the series.
“The playoffs are here. We’re up against a talented team that is well-coached. We need to make sure we share the ball and give maximum effort on the defensive end. If we can do those things and control the pace, we have a good chance to steal this first game.”