Pedro Martínez: “It’s going to be a very tough game against Red Star”
“Facing the team that concedes the fewest points doesn’t change our game plan,” explained Shulga.
Pedro Martínez and Shulga spoke ahead of the Real Madrid-Red Star game corresponding to Round 11 of the EuroLeague. The coach analyzed the game to be played at the Movistar Arena (Thursday, 9:00 pm CEST; M+ Basketball): “Offensively, they have handlers like Jones or Carter, who are really good, with great scoring ability. They are a very physical team and have signed Koloko, who is an athletic five that does many things well. They are one of the best teams in the EuroLeague right now, having won 8 of their last 9 games, and it’s going to be a very tough game. We face it with confidence; at the Palacio, we believe we can beat anyone, and that’s the mindset we have right now.”
“We count on the players we have at 100%. Okeke trained normally today, so we count on him. Sarr gave us some very good minutes the other day in a position that isn’t his natural one, and that’s the good thing: that players are willing to help both in what’s easy for them, in their natural position, and in what’s difficult. It’s also an example with Llull, who surely feels more comfortable in the two position but is now playing as a one.”
Pablo Mera
“It helps us avoid overloading, at least in training, players like Feliz, who is now playing more than we’d like. Tomorrow Pablo Mera won’t be on the roster because we have Okeke coming in and because tomorrow we don’t need to include a non-EU player like we do in the league.”
Shulga: “We feel the support and energy of the Palacio”
“We have to be ready for a very physical game. They have players who are very good scorers. We need to pay attention to that and be ourselves. We’ve had two very tough days of training, so we’re coming in prepared.”
Game plan
“We play our system and our plays. The fact that they are the team that concedes the fewest points doesn’t change things.”
Fans
“It’s very important for us to have the support of the fans. Every time we play at home, we feel the energy and support at the Palacio, so we’ll need that this Thursday as well.”
On an individual level
“I feel good. The coach isn’t asking me to do anything beyond my capabilities. He asks that I play intensely and tough.”
Disclaimer: Translation generated by artificial intelligence. It may contain inaccuracies.