Scariolo: "The players showed resilience against a very good opponent"

Sergio Scariolo spoke to the media in the press room at the Movistar Arena following the game against UCAM Murcia on matchday 29 of the Liga Endesa. Our coach began the conference by analyzing the match: "The conclusion was that we did not want to lose. The players showed resilience against a very good opponent like Murcia, who demonstrated this morning why they are where they are in the standings. You have to give your all to win. It is true that for quite some time, our defense lacked the required focus and intensity against a rival with so much scoring talent."

Hezonja
"I would rate it as perfect if he hadn't missed the free throw that would have allowed us to win in regular time. Almost perfect. I prefer to highlight the 53 valuation points because it also includes 11 rebounds and other contributions. Completing his game in this way is what we have been asking of him since the beginning. He was more than solid defensively as well. If you want to be the best, you have to act like the best in every area of the game. Obviously, on a day when you're tremendously inspired and accurate, the team will follow you. On a normal day, you have to do what you're doing within the team."

"On a bad day, you must have the humility to help, put in the effort, rebound, pass, and defend because that too is greatness. It comes from a mindset that requires work to develop a different logic. Leadership is not just about scoring 40 points today; it's about growing as he is doing. I value more the gradual and consistent growth he is showing in all areas of the game, especially in the mental aspect of serving the team with the talent he has."

Key aspects of the game
"It is also true that when it mattered, we were able to turn it around. We scored important baskets. Either team could have won. It came down to us because of resilience, our DNA, and the desire to show gratitude to the fans for their support throughout the week. They deserved to see their team respect their presence in the arena. For us, it is very important that they feel increasingly identified with the team and see that we give everything. The fact that it has great significance due to securing the first-place mathematically is important, but it wasn't a game where losing would have been catastrophic. Great credit to the opponent, my players, and now we can think more calmly about the upcoming games."

Securing first place with five rounds remaining
"I didn't expect it at the start of the season. But yes, before this matchday, the possibility was there. At the start of the season in a league like this, you can only give an outstanding grade to the team's performance. Finishing first in the regular season does not grant a title. I want to see my team perform, fight, and win throughout the months, not just on day x, which is very important."

Disclaimer: Translation generated by artificial intelligence. It may contain inaccuracies.