Bartzokas: «Crvena Zvezda is the most physical team in the EuroLeague»
Olympiacos will face Crvena Zvezda tomorrow (12/2, 20:15 CET) for the 27th round 27 of the EuroLeague, and Giorgos Bartzokas and Omiros Netzipoglou got to speak during the Media Day about the upcoming game.
In his opening statement, the team’s head coach emphasized: “It’s a very tough team. I believe they play with the greatest physicality in the league. Regardless of the schemes they use, defensively or offensively, they play very aggressively, and that’s why we had problems in Serbia. We had built a big lead in the 3rd quarter, but in the 4th one they turned the game around that way. We didn’t respond to the intense pressure and physical defense they applied. We moved away from our principles, tried to attack individually, and that created problems for us. Right now, we have to learn from that game and understand that this is a crucial matchup, regardless of the friendly atmosphere Crvena Zvezda will face here. For us, it’s a very important game and we must approach it as such.”
Regarding whether there are major differences compared to the first-round game, Bartzokas commented: “Of course there are big differences, for both teams. Bolomboy is back. Players who were absent at the time have returned. They have great athleticism both inside and outside the paint, at the ‘5’ position and at the perimeter. They use big lineups and now switch on defense. But we are also better than we were back then, both defensively and offensively. We’re more complete. Essentially, the difference for us is that we now have Tyrique Jones, who is very good in this type of game. The guard additions won’t play tomorrow. Overall, we believe we are the better team and that we can win and continue positively in the standings.”
On the status of Ntilikina, Papanikolaou, Joseph, and Morris, Bartzokas said: “It’s still uncertain. Ntilikina and Papanikolaou practiced yesterday. Morris will test himself today, as he had been doing individual workouts until now. Honestly, at this moment I’m not sure. I always say who is available and who isn’t, but right now I’m not certain. After today’s practice, I’ll know more. Joseph will have an MRI on Friday. He’s progressing well though. The MRI will show the condition of his strain and whether it has subsided.”
Regarding Olympiacos’ 9–2 record since the home loss to Valencia and whether there is anything that concerns him about the team’s style of play, the coach commented: “I don’t think there is fear. I have great trust in our team. I see high quality in practice. I see great competition because all the players are good and are trying, through practice, to earn their place. I don’t see complacency from anyone. I hope we stay healthy. We also need a bit of luck, because all the games are decided on a razor’s edge. Any kind of relaxation is punished by teams that are fighting for the playoffs, and they can also be beaten by teams that have no chance of making the playoffs. In the EuroLeague, everyone plays for their team, for themselves, and for their contracts. Many teams that may be out of playoff contention now, playing without pressure, can beat you because they have ability and talent. We must manage things both tactically and mentally in order to climb as high as possible in the standings. What is ultimately required is consistency, structure, and avoiding ups and downs. Every game is important.”
Omiros Netzipoglou added the following: “Obviously, it’s a special game because of the relationship between the fans, but I believe every game counts. We lost at their home court, so we need to enter very focused, stick to the coach’s plan, and fight for the win.”
On his excellent performance against Promitheas and his readiness, the Greek guard added: “I work every day. The practices here are very high intensity. Guarding players of such a high level helps you improve and become better. Therefore, what I have to do is always be ready and always available for whatever the team needs and whatever my coach asks of me.”