Real Madrid

Director of Basektball Operations, Alberto Herreros sat down with Realmadrid.com to discuss his first impression of the Euroleague draw.

"Although I think all three groups are complicated, I think there is a clear-cut favorite in ours. CSKA is the reigning champion and the strongest team in the Euroleague, but there is parity throughout. We will try to finish among the top teams in order to have easier opponents in the next round."

"Last year's Final Four teams are perhaps the favorites, but there are some really solid teams who can make it and some that can surprise us all, like Montepaschi Siena did last season. We're going to see how all these squads get along."

"Four out of six teams go through, so our goal is to win one game at a time in order to finish in the top two should there be any chance of being a one seed."

"I don't think Barcelona was very lucky. They drew some tough rivals and long trips. I don't think Unicaja had much luck either after drawing Maccabi and Olympiacos. But anything can happen. You can even make it through as three or four seeds and then have an easier rival in the Top 16."

"I think this year's system is better and that the changes will benefir everyone."

"In Europe, but especially the Euroleague, it's crucial to have the crowd on your side and putting pressure on the refs and the opposing team. We have that going for us. It has been nearly impossible for opponents to win in Vistalegre and we hope it continues that way."