Scariolo: “We are in good shape, aware of the obstacles, but confident we can overcome them”

Sergio Scariolo spoke ahead of the first EuroLeague playoff game between Real Madrid and Hapoel Tel Aviv, which will take place at the Movistar Arena (Wednesday, 8:45 pm CEST; Movistar Deportes): “First of all, I want to send a big hug to Moncho Monsalve's family. It's a sad day; I felt very close to him. He was a great madridista, with four seasons and nine titles, including three European Cups. A giant in our basketball history over the last 50 years at the very least and a passionate lover of the game.”

How is Real Madrid approaching the playoffs?
“We are in good shape, aware of the obstacles, but confident we can overcome them. We have no reason to be overconfident, but we can play great team basketball as we have done over the last four or five months.”

Fans
“I want to reiterate my call to our season ticket holders to fill the arena as much as possible because this is a crucial moment of the season. It is essential for the players to feel that support after an exceptional home season in the EuroLeague. There will be challenges due to the very high level of the opponent, who will push us for the full 40 minutes.”

Would you have preferred a different opponent considering the circumstances?
“I am very pragmatic. There is no point in looking back. Reaching the Top 8 after a season like this… and this EuroLeague with a large number of high-level, high-investment teams, with 38 games. Many positions were decided by just one or two wins. The eight teams that make it are all outstanding.”

Hapoel's threats
“We are facing a team that, if you defend them normally, with the scoring talent they have, their ability to play one-on-one, and their pick&roll, you probably won’t stand a chance of winning. You need an exceptional defense against those actions where they excel.”

 

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