By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Vassilis Spanoulis addressed the pressure surrounding his role at AS Monaco, emphasizing a commitment to shielding his players from off-court distractions as they pursue domestic silverware. Speaking ahead of Friday’s Leaders Cup Quarterfinal against SIG Strasbourg at Arena Futuroscope, the 43-year-old coach admitted that his tenure has been more volatile than initially anticipated.
“I have felt a great deal of frustration. I didn’t expect these challenges when I arrived in Monaco,” Spanoulis confessed. However, with Monaco riding a four-game winning streak across all competitions, he believes the team is at a critical juncture. “History shows that difficult situations bring people together. If they don’t, things go wrong. This team has achieved great things, but the past only matters once you retire. I want to define this group by what they do in the present.”
Drawing on the mental fortitude that defined his legendary playing career, Spanoulis noted that while he was never the fastest or most athletic player, his “greatest talent” has always been managing high-stakes situations. He is now applying that same psychological edge to navigate the club’s current financial and administrative hurdles.
“I am mentally strong, and I know how to navigate both positive and negative circumstances,” he stated. “I strive to be honest with myself and those around me. I am always looking for a solution. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn’t, but we must remain transparent with one another.”
His primary objective remains motivational. He reminded his squad that opportunities to hoist trophies are rare and must be seized immediately. Addressing rumors regarding his own future and potential roster changes, Spanoulis was firm: “My players won’t be leaving right now. It is natural to think about the future, but I won’t be making decisions about mine yet. We are entering the best part of the year, and I have work to finish.”
Ultimately, Spanoulis framed his ambition through the success of his roster rather than personal accolades. “I am happier for them if they win than for me. I find fulfillment in the happiness of the people I work with every day.”
🎙 Et les déclas du Coach Spanoulis #LeadersCup #RocaTeam #DagheMunegu pic.twitter.com/UMtIGLrVRw
— AS Monaco Basket 🇲🇨 (@ASMonaco_Basket) February 20, 2026
Currently, in the 2025-26 EuroLeague Regular Season, Monaco sits in the Play-In zone with a 16–12 record, while they continue to lead France’s Betclic Elite with a dominant 17–2 standing.