The player assures that the entire squad is "very focused" and eager to return to winning ways in front of their home crowd, following a narrow defeat in the last match.
Alocén emphasizes that the best way to manage pressure is to focus on themselves. "We try to manage it, first and foremost, by concentrating on ourselves, which is what we do best," he explains. Although it's inevitable to look at the standings and the results of direct rivals like Andorra or Zaragoza, the point guard insists that the team's future depends, primarily, on their own performance.
“"Of course, it's much better to be able to depend on yourself than on other teams losing"
This self-reliance to achieve salvation brings "confidence" and "relief" to the squad. "Of course, it's much better to be able to depend on yourself than on other teams losing," Alocén states. The player feels the team has shown a "sense of improvement" in recent games and that confidence has been growing, despite the last setback.
The team has analyzed past mistakes, especially the poor first half against Lleida, to avoid repeating them. "We know that the first half the other day was very bad," admits Alocén, although he values the team's reaction that almost secured them the win. In the locker room, they discuss "everything" to be "as united as possible" and pull in the same direction.
They will face an opponent with a "very clear identity" that "plays very fast." Gran Canaria's strategy involves "trying to slow down their pace, being attentive in defensive balance, and communicating constantly." Alocén believes that, from this foundation, they can impose their own game and the physical level of the match.
“"It's not the time to look too much at individual performances"
Alocén highlights the fundamental role of the fans, who have shown unconditional support throughout the season. "Even in bad times, they have been at every game," he expresses gratitude. The point guard considers the supporters "key once again" and is convinced that the atmosphere in the arena will be excellent.
On an individual level, the player places himself entirely at the service of the team and the coach. "It's not the time to look too much at individual performances," he concludes. His sole objective is to contribute whatever is asked of him, whether playing many minutes or fewer. "Everyone in the squad is here for whatever Che tells us, more or less, to first win this Saturday's game," he finishes.
