Chus Mateo: "It's going to be a tough series, we have to be mentally strong"
"We have to build on the momentum we've got. We've had a good run of wins, and that should give us confidence," the coach said.
Chus Mateo spoke ahead of the start of the semi-finals between Real Madrid and Unicaja Málaga. The coach referred to the first game, which will be played at the Movistar Arena (Wednesday, 9:15pm CEST): "I'm expecting a very tough series. The two victories for each team this season suggest that it will be evenly matched, tough, and that we have to be prepared and mentally strong. I hope we stay together, united, and that we're able to hold on in the bad moments, because there will be some. And that we pull together, because that is the way to overcome such tough tests as the ones that await us now."
"Unicaja has been playing at a very high level for some time now, maintaining the same style and pattern of play, with the same coach and few changes to the roster. They're doing things sensibly, and it is paying off. They're capable of playing high-level basketball, with a lot of resources, scoring points in attack and defending well."
Key factors
"There are many factors. The outside shot is a factor to take into account, but it's not the only one. They have very creative players, all-rounders, and other shooting forwards who you can't leave alone. They have a very complete team. We have to be very attentive to many things, but do the basics well: one-on-one defence, rebounding and defensive balance."
Revenge
"I don't see sport as revenge, but as an opportunity to do things better. We have to build on the momentum we've got. We've won a good run of games, and that should give us confidence and make us feel strong, regardless of the opponent. We have to do things right from the first minute of the first playoff game."
First game
"The first game often sets the tone for the series. We have to start very seriously and be focused. We have to stay calm and do things as we normally do. The chance of success depends on good defence. We've been the team that has conceded the fewest points. We're doing well, and we have to stay strong in that department."