By Nikola Miloradovic / info@eurohoops.net
Fenerbahce bounced back after consecutive defeats to Valencia and Real Madrid last week, taking down ASVEL in Round 9 and improving to 4-5 in the EuroLeague standings.
Coach Sarunas Jasikevicius shared his thoughts after the game, pointing out both the positives and areas that need improvement, but overall leaving a positive impression.
“We controlled the game pretty well. In some situations, we were not exactly moving offensively against the changing of their defenses. It’s very good that we had only five turnovers, we were taking care of the ball. Even if we didn’t create too much, we were still getting shots. Obviously, 18 offensive rebounds is a very good number, we were struggling with offensive rebounds. Good fighting spirit by the boys. Still, we have to be better. In the fourth quarter we put them on the line 13 times, in some situations they got what they wanted, but overall we controlled the game,” Jasikevicius said at the postgame press conference.
He also spoke about the motivation of his players and the importance of practice time throughout the season.
“I don’t need to motivate my players, they are professional athletes, if you are not motivated to play for Fenerbahce, you will never be motivated. We had a tough week, we got the job done against Mersin, and had two practices, which is extremely important in this crazy season, when we don’t have time to practice,” Jasikevicius concluded.