Bartzokas: «We got an important win»
Following the significant road victory over Panathinaikos, the coach of Olympiacos, Giorgos Bartzokas commented …
“It was a game that went according to expectations. We had to be consistent with our defense. We played excellent defense for 40’ and a very good offensive game for 30’, with the exception of the 3rd quarter, when we allowed Panathinaikos the chance to return. We succeeded in getting an advantage in the last quarter through good decision making. We got an important win. We finished the first round with 12 wins. I want to give credit to my players for all they have done in the first round. Good lack to Panathinaikos for the upcoming games”.
When asked to comment on the fact that the ‘reds’ came out even better after the Panathinaikos’ comeback, he said: “The ideal scenario would be for Panathinaikos’ comeback to not have happened. We lost our head, made hasty shots, allowed them some tough shots also. We talked during the time out and the break. But, we were able to run plays based on personalities and team work on both ends of the floor. If we take out some distant shots for Panathinaikos, we significantly contained them. Our defense has been very good, our offense in par with our known standards. The home court here is not easy on anyone, especially so on Olympiacos. We got the win and we are happy”.
Finally, asked about Shaquielle McKissic’s performance, he said: “McKissic has been playing less in the Euroleague, but we also have the League games. His participation is indicative of our roster’s depth. We have also players that did not play at all, but should they had played, they would have been able to cope”.