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- You were able to follow the Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet vs. Anadolu Efes clash live on Sportal
Red Star's starting center was on the floor for just under seven minutes before sustaining a groin injury early in the second quarter, after which he did not return to the game. Red-and-whites head coach Ibon Navarro confirmed in his post-game remarks that the setback was indeed a groin issue.
- He brought great energy, but he picked up an injury. It's his groin, which is why he didn't come back on. In the previous game, he wasn't at his best offensively, but defensively he was incredible. Even some of the mistakes everyone mentions came off the back of great defensive plays. The only reason he didn't return was the injury - said Navarro, who stopped short of detailing the full extent of the issue.
Here is what else Ibon Navarro had to say after the game
Crvena Zvezda finally broke the ice to secure their first victory of the new campaign.
Following yet another dramatic clash overshadowed by a severe injury to Mike James, Zvezda survived a late open look from Collin Malcolm to claim the win.
I would like to wish Mike James a speedy recovery. It was a crucial match, and we have to build our confidence around the positives. We had struggled for results up to this point, so this win was vital to reward our supporters. We shot poorly from three and struggled from the free-throw line, but we protected the ball well and minimized turnovers. At this high tempo, we managed possession effectively, though there are still areas we need to refine. Nevertheless, the team presented a completely different image compared to the first two outings. Ibon Navarro
The Zvezda boss also highlighted the solid showing by Ognjen Dobrić, alongside David Krämer's impactful contribution.
Some might point to a few missed shots down the stretch, but beyond that he did a fantastic job, containing Mike James before we switched him onto Jordan Loyd. He paired really well with David Krämer defensively and on the glass; I thought the team looked great whenever the two shared the court. Ibon Navarro
Navarro went on to address the sense of relief following the first win before discussing the rotation adjustments made during the contest.
It means more to me for the people around me, knowing how hard they work. But it is not merely about the final score; it's about executing the right things consistently. Today was better, though far from perfect. Playing again after just 48 hours, players are rarely at peak readiness. That's going to happen, particularly during double-round weeks. We'll have to adjust the rotation—sometimes we'll get it right, sometimes we won't, but those decisions must be made. Ibon Navarro
Navarro also touched upon the conversation he had with Nick Weiler-Babb during Wednesday's training session.
We talked through a lot of things. Nick is lacking a bit of confidence, but he brings immense quality, and we place high demands on him. It is a process. Today Chris wasn't at his best, but Nick stepped up, as did Tyson Carter. Our objective is to ensure opponents never know which player they must shut down to beat us. Ibon Navarro
The Spanish coach also commended his team's disciplined defense, which conceded just 72 points.
We need to tighten up defensively, particularly in one-on-one matchups. At times we over-help, and occasionally players cut behind our backs, but we are continually learning. Sometimes our guys get a bit too wild out there trying to force a dagger shot; we have to help them stay composed. Ibon Navarro
To conclude, Navarro discussed having Albert Riera in attendance as a special guest and reflected on his encounter with Pablo Laso, as both hail from the same city.
He came into the locker room to congratulate us. Now he's got a dilemma, though—he attended and we won, so he'll have to come every time. We are from the same city; when I was 15 or 16, I used to watch him play and always viewed him as an idol. It was an honor to coach against him once again; he is one of the greatest tacticians in EuroLeague history. Ibon Navarro
EuroLeague Standings
VIDEO Red alert: Zvezda slips against Hapoel
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