By Alex Madrid / info@eurohoops.net
Zalgiris overcame a tough period and for the second year straight they are back in the playoffs. This alone is an impressive achievement, as the last time this happened was in the 1985-86/1986-87 seasons.
Eurohoops chatted with one of the stars of the night, Frenchman Leo Westermann, who was very emotional about his team’s triumph against the reigning champions and the qualification.
Speaking of this success, Westermann praised both the team and the fans for supporting them through thick and thin.
“Getting to the playoffs is huge. I’m really proud of the team. Almost a month ago, if we had the same interview, we were almost out of the playoffs. I’m really proud of the fans because a few days ago we saw a sold-out arena to a sold-out arena. They believed in us so we have to give back to them. We had lots of fans in Madrid. Also against Olympiacos and in Tel Aviv. The Lithuanians are really proud of what Zalgiris is doing in representing the country”.
“Saras is a tough coach, but very fair in his basketball [game]. I love it. I think he’s becoming one of the best coaches in Europe”, tells Westermann.
As for the series against Fenerbahce, the French player remains hopeful: “Fenerbahce was the best team of the regular season. It’s going to be a tough matchup but, as we did here, we’re gonna prepare to win.”
Hear it from Westermann himself: