Jaka Lakovic, the new head coach for La Laguna Tenerife, has set maintaining the identity of a club established in Spanish basketball's top tier and a regular participant in European competitions as his primary goal. According to club president Aniano Cabrera, the team was experiencing a decline in 'energy'.
During the official presentation, Cabrera emphasized that the Slovenian coach's arrival signifies the beginning of 'an exciting challenge, with a new horizon, full of energy and great enthusiasm'. Addressing the fans, he highlighted the importance of unity to 'recharge energies' and achieve shared objectives.
“"Together we will build, working with commitment and a lot of energy, a beautiful future for everyone."
Lakovic, who thanked the club for its trust, described the new role as a 'great responsibility' that he faces with 'great enthusiasm'. He expressed his belief in the project and his eagerness to defend the team's colors, calling it 'a great opportunity at a great club, with a lot of ambition and fantastic fans'.
The Slovenian coach briefly touched upon his departure from Gran Canaria, characterizing the past season as 'tough and complicated'. His focus now is on the 'work ahead', warning about the specific challenges of the Eurocup, which features a condensed schedule, long travel distances, and opponents with substantial budgets, but also represents 'a very exciting challenge'.
Regarding the squad's composition, Aniano Cabrera indicated the intention to retain the core group, making 'minor adjustments in some positions'. A roster of 13 or 14 players is anticipated, including the long-term injured Rokas Jokubaitis. Players like Joan Sastre, Jaime Fernández, Tim Abromaitis, Wesley Van Beck, and Gio Shermadini are under contract, while the club holds options on Bruno Fitipaldo and Fran Guerra. Others, such as Aaron Doornekamp, Patti Mills, and Marcelinho Huertas, have expiring contracts.
Cabrera noted the need to assess which players with expiring contracts fit the team's scheme to maintain a 'solid structure' and make effective signings. Concerning Marcelinho Huertas, Lakovic expressed his 'personal desire' for him to stay, highlighting his role as a 'leader' and his ability to 'build a team and make his teammates better'.
Aware of the inflated prices in the current transfer market, the club is 'analyzing thoroughly' its options. The initial plan is to 'definitely' sign a small forward, a combo guard, and a center. For Lakovic, the most important factor is that the desired player 'wants to come to Canarias, to join this project'.
The Slovenian coach advocated for continuity in 'three fundamental pillars: commitment from everyone, daily work, and ambition', qualities he believes CB Canarias has consistently demonstrated. He emphasized the team's 'character, experience, and leadership', enabling them to 'know how to play' both in Spain and Europe.
The objectives include a strong start to the ACB regular season, qualification for the Eurocup playoffs, the Copa del Rey, and the championship's title phase. Lakovic does not feel additional pressure succeeding Txus Vidorreta but imposes high standards on himself, just as his players do, who 'don't like to lose even in a casual game'.
Initially, Lakovic will work with the existing technical staff, pending any potential new additions.
