By Eurohoops Team/ info@eurohoops.net
Greek head coach, Giannis Sfairopoulos discussed the recent decision to cancel the remainder of the 2019-20 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season. The interview relayed by Maccabi FOX Tel Aviv spills into his strong relationship with the fans of the Israeli club.
“The feeling is sweet and sour at the same time,” he mentioned summing up the EuroLeague season, “Sweet because we had a strong season and sour because we could not continue our fight and reach as far as we wanted and believed possible.”
Euroleague Basketball decided to abandon the conclusion of the 2019-20 campaign, due to the coronavirus pandemic. Maccabi was previously tied for fourth place thanks to a 19-9 tally.
“We hoped that action would be resumed, but we understand that due to the safety issues it was impossible to play,” admitted Sfairopoulos, “Every team from every country is facing different situations, not possible to overcome. It was the right decision.”
Moving forward to the 2020-21 season, the Maccabi boss hopes fans can be present.
“I hope the fans can return from the first game. I want our home to remain the toughest place for our opponents,” he stressed, “That is our promise that fans will continue to help us and celebrate big wins with us. We can’t wait to experience those games and moments again.”
Sfairopoulos has become a fan-favorite since taking over Maccabi in 2018. Last December, following his initial success at Tel Aviv, he signed a three-year contract extension.
“There are no words to describe my feelings for the Maccabi fans,” he replied to a question on the fan-base support, “They love me and know I love them back. They support the team and myself, and its something I will never forget.”
“It’s one of the best memories drawn through my career,” he said regarding the famous banner the Tel Aviv crowd dedicated to him, “You may win championships and big games, but such support and emotions warm my heart. And my heart is full of love for the Maccabi fans.”
EuroLeague will not restart, but Maccabi is set for domestic action. “On the one hand, it’s good. On the other hand, we must be very careful about things going awry,” he mentioned.
“Injuries are another very important issue,” added Sfairopoulos, “We must be very careful. After this long hiatus, it will be difficult to return to action, but we will make our best effort.”