By Dionysis Aravantinos / info@eurohoops.net
“We did not have much time to prepare because we had to play three games in five days. We had two training sessions and tried to recall the details. We have to “fight” and play heart and mind,” coach Jasikevicius said before leaving for an adventurous journey to Greece.
When asked about refereeing he said the following: “I do not think they (referees) are protecting the stars. What’s most important, however, is to respect us equally, as each group deserves to be respected. The referees must always play 50-50”.
Jasikevicius also talked about Georgios Printezis and what he brings to the table for Olympiacos’ squad: “He is one of the best players in Euroleague. Stopping him with one guy on him is difficult. We have to prepare for different defensive options, not only against him but also against other players. We must be ready to sacrifice ourselves, play disciplined basketball. I do not think it will be a spectacular series, nor that Olympiacos can be dealt with in this way. It will be a tough, tough series.”
Finally, he was also asked about Olympiacos’ experience and how it can affect the series: “We have to pay attention to details. We may not have experience from the EuroLeague playoffs, but many players have fought in tough situations. Experience is a factor, but there are dozens more in addition to that. I hope that it does not play a decisive role.”
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