Belgrade –
These are the words of Coach Sergio Scariolo after the game:
“Congratulations to Partizan for the win and also to their 16 thousand fans who pushed their players to give their best. The gap, which was created in the first quarter, basically determined the game. In the middle quarters we played, albeit with mistakes, in the last unfortunately we gave up. Partizan was the better team tonight, we accept that, and work from tomorrow to grow.
They played really well, with energy and decisiveness, and they fielded a physical defense. We are very late in the team’s development and with an important player out like Shengelia, but we should have done better. We made several mistakes that should not be repeated. In the middle quarters we played, albeit with mistakes, in the last quarter unfortunately we gave up.
Teodosic? He missed the whole pre season. He returned last week, from June. That’s a long time for a player like him. I can’t say when he will be in top form. But we don’t plan to play him 30′ a game. We want to use his very high basketball IQ in the best way.
Goals? We are in our first year in the Euroleague after a long time. Everyone has to understand that the Euroleague of 15 years ago is not what it is now. It is much more competitive and physical. We want to be in the group of teams that will play the playoffs until the end. I would have a hard time saying 2 teams that will definitely be out, let alone 10. It’s going to be tough, we have to grow.
Last season was about waiting for a return to the Euroleague, and we succeeded by winning the EuroCup. It’s a two-sided medal, one is beautiful, the other is tough, we know we will have to suffer, and fight to do the best.”
