By Alex Molina / info@eurohoops.net
Barça has qualified for the second play-in game after defeating Red Star Belgrade, a hard-fought victory that Xavi Pascual assessed in the press conference.
“We lost our lead very quickly after leading by 22 points, and they got back into the game. We lost the lead because they were very accurate, and we dropped off; basketball changes very quickly. But we were solid, with a good mentality to keep going. It was a very meritorious victory, a testament to solidity. The team was improving until Satoransky’s injury, and now that he’s back, we’re back on track to be more solid. These are very important pieces; Sato is back with us, and we’re balanced enough to compete at a certain level. Without him, the team suffers a lot. We were playing very well, and we struggled a lot without him; now we’re back on track.”
The game was marked by a great start from the home team, with impressive outside shooting.
“We always say that we have to be open to any game scenario. Today we had this one, sometimes the opposite. You always have to be in the game, fighting and adapting. Look for the most inspired player. Seven of nine from three-point range is a very high number, with one player making six.”
The player in question was precisely the author of these six three-pointers in ten minutes: Will Clyburn.
“The rotation was a bit longer than we had planned, but when a player is in that form, I’m in favor of keeping him on the court; it’s a special moment. In basketball, there are interconnected elements, and he helped all the players find their rhythm. We dropped off a bit in the second half, but overall, we created very well.”
Once again, the Palau Blaugrana were an integral part of the Barça victory: “I hope this isn’t the last EuroLeague game at the Palau. I felt that the fans really enjoyed it; we’re very happy, and with this connection with the crowd, we enjoyed it even more.”
To face Olympiacos in the quarterfinals, Barça will have to overcome Monaco, who also have a very short rotation.
“In terms of rotation, there isn’t much difference, and they’re incredibly athletic. Mike James played 38 minutes today, I think, Blossomgame 34… They have the physique to endure anything, great athleticism, and they hold up very well. They also played on Sunday, like us, so we’ll be just as worn out. It will be a very tough game; we’ve already lost to them twice.”
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