Bartzokas: «We are approaching the game with the seriousness it demands» (vid)
Before the departure of Olympiacos to Kaunas, for the game against Zalgiris (02/01, 19:00), our team's coach, Giorgos Bartzokas, after wishing for the new year and thanking all those present to the airport to cover the team's departure, commented on the upcoming game vs the Lithuanian team.
He first said that: "we are approaching the game with the seriousness it demands despite the festivities of the days is against it. Everyone wanted to celebrate last night and welcome the new year with their beloved, and we have to embrace a mood of responisiblity, in a tough arena, against a very good team, that defends very well. They pout their hands on the ball very well and you have to protect it, otherwise they will take it from your hands, they are very good at that".
About how much Zalgiris has changed since adding Lonnie Walker to their roster, he stressed that: "I think, that if you recall coach Trinchieri's statements, you will see that he has given them much more talent and an unpredictable way to attack, but they are less 'systemic' when Walker is on the floor".
Asked about the coaching records he has achieved and those about to come, he became emotional and said that "I would never had imagined that life would bring me here. It's something I really appreciate a lot. A big thanks to the presidents for putting their trust in me».
Milutinov: «We must get on the floor and show why we rank at the position we are right now»
On his part, Nikola Milutinov, talking about the first game of 2025, against Zalgiris, said: «It's going to be very hard for us, because everyone knows how good Zalgiris is when playing at home, in front of their fans. This year, they are one of the best defensive teams of the Euroleague, so it's going to be a very difficult game for us. We must get on the floor and show why we rank the way we do right now».
About how the game of the Lithuanian team has changed after signing Lonnie Walker: «He has given them a great boost. He's an amazing player, a huge personality, and you know, all 5 of us will have to play defense on him, not just one designated guard. So, it's going to be a very hard job, but they also have great shooters. They have a very good roster and it's going to be a very difficult game for us».
Asked about what he wishes for the new year, he said: «Basketball wise, I will be very happy if we succeed in winning the Euroleague title. It's going to be a huge accomplishement and we also aim for the other 2 titles. Apart from basketball, I wish health and success for everyone. Health is the most important of all, everything else will follow...».
THE FULL STATEMENTS IN THE VIDEO THAT FOLLOWS