Panathinaikos held its final practice before its EuroLeague opener for the new season. The “Greens” will host Paris at the T-Center (September 24, 9:30 p.m.) with a clear goal: to get off to a strong start.
During practice, Zeljko Obradović spoke to the media, referring to his team’s first official game of the new season. The game is important to him as well, as it officially marks his return as Panathinaikos’ coach at the OAKA, after 14 years!
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
The Serbian coach first discussed his team’s preseason preparations and how they went:
“The situation during preseason was difficult. We had a lot of injured players, as well as players who competed with their national teams, but we did well. I’m very happy with how the players who were here fought in the friendlies. We need to keep working. Together, we had about 10 practices. It’s the same for us as it is for all EuroLeague teams. No one is 100% ready, but we have games ahead of us, and the players would rather play games than train.” “We have to do everything we can. It’s the only way. It’s basketball. We have to prepare and fight just like we did in our last game against PAOK.
We’ve scouted Paris. We have information; we’ve watched almost all of their preseason games and the French Super Cup. They have a new coach and new players. Their systems are similar to those of the past two years: transition plays, three-pointers, offensive rebounds, and solid defense. We have to be ready.”
He then clarified that both Nikos Rogavopoulos and Dimitris Moraitis will be… in the lineup for the game against the Parisians:
“Rogavopoulos has been practicing since Monday, and Moraitis will be ready.”
As for the other injured players, the situation remains unclear. This is something “Zoc” made sure to clarify:
“We don’t know yet. They aren’t ready to train with the team; they need time—we’ll see how much.”
Finally, Obradović also spoke about his own return to the OAKA, after being asked about it. The veteran coach made it clear that the first EuroLeague game is important for the team and not for the… individuals. He also emphasized that his focus is on the match:
“The first game of every season is special. Personal matters aren’t important. My mind is set on preparing for the game. My focus is on the game and only on that.”
*photo source: KYPE
