By Nikola Miloradovic / info@eurohoops.net
Pablo Laso reflected on Anadolu Efes’ difficult previous season and the thinking behind their roster changes after a 94-84 win over Real Madrid in Istanbul.
The Spanish coach identified three areas Efes sought to improve, while stressing that injuries could not excuse last season’s struggles.
“Last year was really difficult for us. Injuries are the biggest obstacle to getting what you expect from your team in sports. I think injuries are part of the game, but they cannot be an excuse. That is why we need to analyse last season’s difficulties from several angles,” Laso said.
Laso pointed to three areas that shaped Efes’ roster changes, although he acknowledged that the rebounding numbers against Real Madrid did little to support his point.
“I think there were three reasons: first, creativity; second, athleticism; third, rebounding. Perhaps it is not the best day to say that when we have been outrebounded by 15. But looking at the bigger picture, we built our roster with those areas in mind for such a demanding season.”
Despite those difficulties, Laso said he had arrived at Efes with the highest ambitions. His immediate focus, however, is firmly on the next game.
“I am a very optimistic person. I came here last year believing we would become EuroLeague champions. But sometimes, time shows you the reality. The only thing on my mind is the next game.”
Laso then explained that news about fellow coaches losing their jobs had given him another reason to keep his attention on the immediate task.
“Today I saw some news about coaches being fired. So when I see that, I say, ‘Let’s win on Thursday first.’”
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