By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
ATHENS — On the eve of the most frequent championship matchup in European basketball history, Olympiacos head coach Giorgos Bartzokas and guard Tyler Dorsey previewed the title game of the 2026 EuroLeague Final Four Athens, presented by Etihad.
“Our moments, in our careers, are priceless. One of these is to have the opportunity to play a Final, especially against a huge club like Real Madrid. It’s going to be a real battle, as it was every time in the past,” noted the veteran play-caller, addressing the media during Saturday’s official championship game press conference at Telekom Center Athens.
He freely acknowledged the team’s enthusiasm, stating, “We are excited. I don’t have to hide it. We think that we deserve to be here. Of course, Real deserved the same.”
Looking ahead to the narrow preparation window, the 60-year-old boss added, “I think we are ready. We have this day to prepare our minds, our bodies, and tactically to adjust to what Real is going to apply. I’m looking forward to the game.”
Appearing in their 15th Final Four, Olympiacos will enjoy the distinct advantage of playing on home soil.
The 30-year-old guard opened the session by reflecting on the rare privilege of competing for the ultimate prize in familiar territory. “It’s exciting going into this game,” Dorsey said. “It’s a blessing. It’s an opportunity to have this opportunity at home, in front of our fans in Greece. We’re excited, ready to go, and are going to be focused.”
The Greek powerhouse is set to face Real Madrid in the championship game at the Telekom Center Athens on Sunday, marking a record-breaking fifth time these two clubs will battle for the continental crown. Given the deep competitive history between the two finalists, Dorsey indicated that tactical surprises would be minimal, and the outcome would ultimately hinge on real-time execution and mental resilience.
“I don’t think much has changed. We have been playing each other for so many years. We know tactically what we are going to do. So, I think it’s the small adjustments during the game. Adjusting to their runs, because they are a great team, and they are going to make runs,” he mentioned, highlighting the deep familiarity defining this historic rivalry.
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