Papanikolaou: «Focus is the key»
Kostas Papanikolaou talked about tomorrow’s game (18/3, 20.45 CET) against Zalgiris Kaunas for the 11th day of the Euroleague TOP-16.
“The key is focus. In games like that you need to execute correctly the coach’s plan. No game for the Euroleague is easy. We are talking about the TOP 16 where all the teams are good. Zalgiris is good. We need to be determines and work well in our defense so as to perform well and win the game. At this point, we try for 4/4 victories. The job needs to be done right form the first to the last minute, despite the score. We need to fight for the best outcome possible”, the left handed forward originally said.
Asked on whether the players watch YouTube to take courage from the achievements of the recent past in view of a tough game stretch ahead of them, he said that “we know what we have achieved. I don’t intend insulting anyone. What I mean is that this team has won two Euroleagues in the last two seasons and played the final last season. I think we have done some great things and I’m not saying that to justify the loss at Bamberg. I wanted to point out that this team has always fought its way. There have been moments in all these years that we were with our backs against the wall. And in 2012, 2013 and last year, but also in 2014 when the guys lost the fifth game against Real. Olympiacos has always been fighting and never quits. We should have faith and support. We need our fans here with us tomorrow and always. We are making a huge effort to qualify and to keep the first place in the regular season of the Greek League which will give us the home court advantage:”.
On whether the energy the team spends on the Euroleague games can cost them in the Greek League, ‘Pap’ said that “it’s good for the Greek League that many teams have become stronger. It’s Aris, PAOK and AEK that are opponents to be considered. Just like other teams, like Rethymno that when at their home court play very well. We saw that Lavrio, although in the last ranking spots, was leading against us by ten at one point. We need to respect our team, ourselves and the opponent. We need all the guys, even those who don’t play. Even Matt who is in recovery. We are going to need him. Everyone is needed for the best outcome possible”.