By Bugra Uzar / buzar@eurohoops.net
Khem Birch spoke to Eurohoops during Fenerbahce Beko’s open practice session ahead of the EuroLeague semifinal, sharing his thoughts on the team’s mentality, his relationship with coach Sarunas Jasikevicius, and the upcoming matchup against Olympiacos.
Reflecting on Fenerbahce’s return to the Final Four, Birch said the team feels confident, especially with several players already knowing what it takes to win the title.
“Everything is going well. I think we all believe in ourselves. Some of us were here last year when we won the championship, so we know what to expect and what needs to be done.”
Birch also admitted that he enjoys the pressure that comes with playoff basketball and believes those moments bring out the best in him.
“Yeah, definitely. I hate playing for nothing. It’s easy to play when there’s nothing to lose, but when there’s pressure and something at stake, that’s when the real men step up.”
The Canadian center then spoke about Jasikevicius repeatedly calling him a reliable player throughout the season.
“It means a lot to me. We both want to win. That’s the relationship we have. We’ll do whatever it takes for that.”
Ahead of the semifinal clash with Olympiacos B.C., Birch — who previously played for the Greek side — joked about the divided loyalties inside his own family.
“(Laughs) Yeah, my father-in-law is a huge Olympiacos fan. My wife also grew up supporting Olympiacos. The funny thing is that she told me she’ll support me tomorrow, but deep down I know she wants them to win,” Birch said with a laugh.
“My daughter also goes to school here and she’ll be at the game. I want her to have something to brag about when she goes back to school.”
Asked what has been the key factor behind Fenerbahce’s success this season, Birch pointed to the team’s defensive identity.
“Definitely defense. I think that’s what stands out the most about us, and defense wins championships.”
Speaking about Olympiacos’ frontcourt, Birch praised Nikola Milutinov, with whom he shared a locker room a decade ago.
“I think it’s a normal matchup. I played with Milutinov 10 years ago. He’s a very talented player. Their other two young bigs are also very good. But honestly, I’m not too worried about them. I just want to go out there and do the best I can.”
Although he acknowledged last year’s championship celebration was unforgettable, Birch revealed that his biggest motivation this time is more personal.
“Yeah, definitely, but that’s not my main motivation. My daughter will be at the game tomorrow — that’s my biggest motivation.”
Finally, Birch had a message for the Fenerbahce supporters expected to be heavily outnumbered in Athens.
“Yes, please be as loud as possible tomorrow because there won’t be many of us.”