By Javier Molero/ jmolero@eurohoops.net
Mario Hezonja has become the leader of this Real Madrid team. In his third Euroleague Final Four with the club, the Croatian has made it clear that they are there to win the title, despite the constant pressure on the Spanish team.
“I think it’s the most important basketball tournament in the world. It consists of two games, and it’s the most important and demanding moment, both individually and as a team. I think the team is in good shape, prepared and trained to reach a high level against Valencia”, Hezonja said to Real Madrid TV.
“We have to go there to win, but forget about the pressure, because pressure never brings anything good. We have to play with passion, be totally focused, and know how to handle everything surrounding this tournament, because, although it’s a wonderful experience, it also has many distractions. We have to be smart in our preparation and in how we experience it there”, he added.
He also spoke to the media, noting the difficulty of the match against Valencia, the bad luck of Tavares and Len’s injuries, and how happy he is at Real Madrid.
“It’s an honor to have this jersey for so long, hopefully for many more years to come”, Hezonja said to the media. “Everyone has to step up. It’s a real shame that both of them got injured in the same position; we have a lot of respect for them”, the Croatian forward added.
Regarding the Final Four semi-final against Valencia, Hezonja praised the team’s performance and Pedro Martínez’s leadership on the bench.
“Valencia plays at a high level all year round. They have a squad that allows them to change and rotate a lot. Their attacking level is very high”, Hezonja said to the media.
“For me, no, but for many people, perhaps in the media or among the fans, it might be a surprise. When you know these players and Pedro, who is a great coach—he already did it with Manresa—then you’re prepared to face the level of their team”, he answered.
“They also beat us in the Super Cup, so now we have to step up our game, and it will be difficult to beat them”, Real Madrid’s star concluded.