By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
After losing homecourt advantage earned by ranking third in the 2023-24 Regular Season of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague, AS Monaco faces additional pressure to win Game 2 of the best-of-five Playoffs series versus Fenerbahce Beko in Salle Gaston Medecin on Friday.
“We need to play smarter. Read the game better, matchups, defensive situations,” pointed out Sasa Obradovic previewing the second game of the series, “We have to find better solutions, improve all the little things that can help us win.”
Besides Terry Tarpey (left knee surgery), all remaining players are healthy.
“Game 2 will be demanding mentally, based on character,” added the play-caller of La Roca Team, “I completely believe we can bounce back. Playing at home, we must be solid and win this second game.”
Jaron Blossomgame went back to the 2023 Playoffs. His side lost Game 1 to Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv at home but edged out the best-of-five series in five games. “We won Game 2 and Game 3 to force a fifth game,” he recalled, “We have a very good team with the experience from last year. We remain confident and sure of our strengths.”
Moving to Ulker Sports Arena, Game 3 is scheduled for Wednesday. Game 4, if necessary, will follow next Friday. A potential split after four meetings would set up a deciding Game 5 in the Principality of Monaco on 8 May.
Berlin is set to host the 2024 Final Four between 24 and 26 May.
Photo Credit: EuroleagueBasketball.net