By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Jordi Fernandez made history last night, becoming the first-ever Spanish head coach to grab a win in the NBA Regular Season. He could do so as his Brooklyn Nets had the better of the Milwaukee Bucks, winning 115-102 in front of the home crowd at the Barclays Center.
“It represents a moment in my life and you look at it and it’s the beginning of something special”, the Badalona-born and raised coach commented about such a special occasion. “So it’s very special to come all the way from starting from the bottom in the NBA, and working really hard and move up, and move up, and some good moments, some tough moments, different teams, friends, memories”, he added.
He couldn’t have done it without the contribution of Dennis Schroder, who erupted for 29 points (8/15 FG including 5/8 from three and 8/8 FT), 4 rebounds, and 6 assists. “I mean, a guy from Europe, from Spain, being a head coach in the NBA, that’s a big time”, he shared.
In the post-game press conference, the Spanish head coach also spoke about his German playmaker’s impact on the Nets. “That’s who he is… He does it in his own way, and he’ll let you know it, and I like it”, the Canadian national team’s head coach commented as well.
Giannis Antetokounmpo wasn’t enough for the Milwaukee Bucks to get the win on the road in Brooklyn despite almost recording a triple-double with 22 points, 12 rebounds, and 7 assists. The Greek Freak shot 7/11 from the field and 8/11 at the charity stripe.
“It’s important because when we go back to: Who do we want to be and how do we want to do it? How do we represent the Brooklyn grit and The Brooklyn Way? Dennis can definitely help us with that part with his toughness, with the way he competes… All his teammates see it, so that’s part of leadership. Walking the walk instead of talking the talk”, he added as reported by Clutch Points’ Erik Slater.
During the NBA Night, Zaccharie Risacher had a 13-point losing effort as Atlanta lost to the Oklahoma City Thunder. Elsewhere, Ivica Zubac dragged the Los Angeles Clippers to the road win against Golden State with a huge double-double of 23 points and 18 rebounds, including 6 assists.
NBA Results of the Night
Indiana Pacers – Philadelphia 76ers 114-118 OT
Brooklyn Nets – Milwaukee Bucks 115-102
Portland Trail Blazers – New Orleans Pelicans 125-103
Oklahoma City Thunder – Atlanta Hawks 128-104
Golden State Warriors – Los Angeles Clippers 104-112
PHOTO CREDIT: Getty Images
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