"I Follow Zvezda, Anything is Possible!" Luka Mitrović Shines in Russia: Every Day of Nerves and Waiting Paid Off!
)
The first finalist was decided earlier when UNICS easily defeated Parma, while CSKA emerged victorious in the evening game after a brilliant second half.
Luka Mitrović contributed eight points in his team's win against Zenit, earning him the chance to compete for the inaugural WINLINE Cup trophy on Sunday.
After the game, Luka spoke to Serbian media, initially addressing the match itself and the Army Men's superb second-half performance.
"Two completely different halves, especially in terms of aggression. The idea was to find an adequate rhythm through strong aggression and defense. We started well. We disrupted them, but then conceded almost 30 points in the second quarter, which is completely uncharacteristic for us. Later, everything looked exactly as we wanted. I would dare to say we beat Dejan Radonjić at his own game. We cut off their ball movement and pushed them out of their comfort zone. We have a lot of offensive talent to capitalize on our defensive effort." - Luka Mitrović
UNICS will be their opponent in the final, and the Serbian international also touched upon that match. The Kazan team has already beaten them twice this season.
"I don't think it will be an easier task. They've beaten us twice this year. Along with Parma and Mega, they are the only ones who have defeated us this season. We know each other well, especially the coaches and players who have been around for a while. Whatever the competition, there's always motivation for a final. We have one day to rest, and then we'll try to win the first trophy of the season." - Luka Mitrović
In the semi-final, Luka's team overcame Dejan Radonjić, Zenit's coach. Mitrović also spoke about playing against a coach with whom he achieved numerous successes.
"My previous experiences against Dejan were far from pleasant. When I played in Germany, I realized what it was like for our rivals all those years. Not pleasant at all. You get a beating, of course... We responded adequately, and that's important. Our team, in terms of aggression, can offer more than Zenit. Now he's felt his own poison." - Luka Mitrović
At the start of the season, Mitrović waited a long time for the right offer. In the end, it turned out he made the right choice.
"Every day of nerves and anticipation paid off. I've emphasized many times that I enjoy every day in Moscow and at the club. CSKA fosters a family atmosphere among players and club staff. The people who run the club do everything to provide players with everything necessary to fully dedicate themselves to the court. Although I no longer compete in European competitions, I'm happy to be in a team with such ambitions, one that is always expected to win. That pushes me forward and motivates me." - Luka Mitrović
He compared the rivalry between CSKA and Zenit to that of Crvena Zvezda and Partizan.
"Oh no... It's superfluous to even talk about it. The rivalry between Crvena Zvezda and Partizan is one of the biggest in the world. Here, basketball is still viewed differently, with far less passion, fire, and emotion. It's a form of entertainment here. In Moscow, basketball is the third sport after hockey and football. There is a rivalry on the court because winning is imperative at CSKA. We bring the fire." - Luka Mitrović
Luka also follows Crvena Zvezda's EuroLeague results, noting that the time difference can sometimes pose a problem.
"I follow as much as my obligations and time zones allow. It's gotten unnecessarily complicated. It wouldn't be if it didn't get a little complicated. I hope, first and foremost, that they'll secure a play-in spot, that it won't be in question... After that, anything is possible, it's all about fine margins." - Luka Mitrović
A large number of Serbian footballers play in Moscow, but our basketball player has yet to meet any of them.
"Honestly, I haven't met anyone yet. I've spoken with Gajić, and we're arranging a family get-together. They had a long break, and I arrived just before it. They only returned in March. I hope we'll get to socialize towards the end of the season." - Luka Mitrović
Finally, he spoke about next season, with Mitrović stating he still sees himself in the jersey of this great club.
"I have a contract until the end of the season. The playoffs are approaching, and all my thoughts are focused on that. Only after that will we think about other things. My desire to stay is certainly not in question." - Luka Mitrović
VIDEO: Nvora's monstrous dunk, followed by a three-pointer!
&format=webp)
&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)
,fit(112:112)&format=webp)