By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The era of Sarunas Jasikevicius as the play-caller of Fenerbahce Beko starts immediately with a game against AS Monaco on Friday.
Being named the new head coach before the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season Round 14 matchup in Ulker Sports And Event Hall, the Lithuanian tactician talked to Fenerbahce TV before team practice on Thursday.
“It all happened so fast,” he described the process of taking over the team based in Istanbul, “Of course, the situation is far from easy. We are here to do our job, help Fenerbahce win games, and hopefully enjoy success.”
Jasikevicius, 47, played for Fenerbahce Ulker at the bottom end of the 2010-11 season, helping to capture domestic league and cup titles. “I am absolutely thrilled to be here. So many familiar faces and places,” he mentioned, “I know it will not be easy, so we need support from everybody.”
“I have been a coach for many years but my playing days here do not seem so long ago,” added Jasikevicius, “This is crazy and actually awesome. It is great to know what Fenerbahce means, to step into the court feeling how many supporters this club has and how much support they provide. This is very exciting.”
A potential win against Monaco would push Fener to a balanced 7-7 record in EuroLeague. “I think everyone is aware of their quality,” he previewed his debut, “We just have to get on the court, do our best, and try to win.”
Photo Credit: Fenerbahce