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After eight rounds, the Athens giants sit atop the EuroLeague standings with a 7-1 record, although they had to work much harder than expected against their Italian opponents.
I want to congratulate my team for fighting through another tough contest. This is a very important victory. We had our ups and downs; there are things we must improve, and we will address them in practice. Unfortunately, given the tight schedule, we don't have much time to work on the court. - Zeljko Obradovic
The decorated tactician pointed out that the team's fluctuations are hardly surprising, especially considering injury setbacks and a relentless schedule.
After every game, we analyze what went well and what fell short of the standard EuroLeague demands. Everything matters to us. We started the season missing key players, had little time to build chemistry in pre-season, and then suffered new injuries. That is something we will have to navigate all season long.
He particularly underlined how difficult it is to make tactical strides when the team is constantly on the road playing games.
We know what we need to adjust, but between travel and the relentless calendar, practice time is limited. That is why communication is key. The players are smart, they understand the game, and that's how we've operated since day one.
It Wasn't Just Kendrick Nunn
Kendrick Nunn was naturally a hot topic at the post-game press conference, but Obradovic made sure not to single out any individual.
Tonight wasn't just about Nunn. Others stepped up and contributed to this win as well—some on offense, like Kendrick, and others on the defensive end. We have to be on the same page, fully understanding what we want to execute defensively and what looks we're hunting on offense.
Obradovic voiced special satisfaction with the team's internal communication.
The most important thing is that they talk to one another and try to help each other out. We are going to have many more battles like this because that's EuroLeague basketball. Every team fights until the final buzzer. I'm proud of the effort my players showed. Mistakes happen, especially when you're trying to make the right play.
Are Panathinaikos Signing a Center?
The biggest buzz came when he addressed rumors about Panathinaikos potentially adding a new center to the roster.
It's great that people have opinions; I actually like that. There are 18,000 fans in the arena and everyone has a take on everything. They are entitled to it. But I have my opinion too, and someone put me in this seat to make the decisions.
He then dismissed the ongoing social media speculation.
"I trust the squad that was available tonight, just as I trust the players who were sidelined. I am entirely focused on my job. I honestly don't read or watch the rumors. I don't care about that. I have plenty to prepare for our next practice and the upcoming game," the coach stated.
His comments regarding specific names linked with the club were particularly pointed.
People come up to me with 'inside info' mentioning names I've never heard of in my life. That's the world we live in. With social media everywhere, people have to write something and create talking points.
Finally, he reiterated his unwavering backing for the current roster.
"I respect everyone's perspective, that's not an issue for me. But I believe in my team and my players. They work tirelessly, they are good people, and they are fully dedicated to basketball. That's what matters most to me, and I will always stand by them."
EuroLeague Standings
VIDEO: Obradovic's Panathinaikos edge Olimpia Milano in thrilling finish
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