The CB Gran Canaria coach analyzed the team's current situation, acknowledging that while defeat is always painful, the squad effectively executed the established plan against a strong Euroleague opponent. The coach highlighted that his players maintained the lead on the scoreboard for over 29 minutes and praised the group's excellent disposition.
Despite having only three days to work, the coach positively assessed the team's defensive performance in their first game. He stated that he saw the team “very united” in defense, which allowed them to reduce the scoring of an opponent with great offensive capability.
“"We are not going to negotiate intensity."
The squad has trained “very well” during the week, according to the coach, who expressed being “very happy with the work.” The team is now preparing for their next opponent, Zaragoza, a “different” team that averages 88 points per game. The mood is positive, and the coach noted that the team has conveyed “great joy” to the coaching staff.
The coach perceives his players as “very united, very close, and very eager to get out of this situation.” He believes the team is looking to “execute better every day” and that, when playing well, “you have many more chances to win a game.”
“"Concentration is key in this."
Given the inevitable pressure of competition, the coach assured that the team has gained “a lot of confidence” and that intensity is a non-negotiable aspect. He added that playing at home with the support of the fans will be fundamental. The coach compares the struggle at the bottom of the table to “playing for a championship” and believes that the key to managing pressure is focus, as it “calms anxiety levels.”
Finally, the coach wanted to dispel any doubts about his players' involvement, insisting that focus is key, because commitment and effort “will be there.” He concluded that he “feels it largely comes down to being focused.”
