The Greek club represented by a Lithuanian recognized the superiority of Maccabi Tel Aviv in the first match at home 87:91.
In 24 minutes, the Kaunian scored 11 points (3/8 triples, 2/2 penalties), rebounded 4 balls, made 2 passes and collected 10 utility points.
“We played at home and we had to win. Now we can analyze many things: rebounds, fast attack. But at the end of the day, it takes three wins and we have to stick together. No one said it would be easy or that home field advantage would do the job for us.
It’s not the end of the world. We have to show character and bounce back like we have done all season. The most important thing is to stay united and not repeat the same mistakes”, said the Lithuanian after the match.
Despite the defeat, M. Grigonis was happy with the team’s attack after the match, but he also considered what should be done better.
“We were a little sloppy defensively in the first half, but we made some important shots. They won a lot of balls in attack, they ran to fast attacks. Our offense was good, we scored 87 points. It’s not the end of the world, we can win three times!
In a match like this, you need to pay attention to even the smallest details. We were also loaded with fouls that threw us off balance. When you lose, you have to have an answer and show character. We have to do various small things better”, said M. Grigonis.
“Panathinaikas” coach Ergin Atamanas, as always, did not spare loud quotes. During the season, the strategist screamed that his team would win the Euroleague.
After an unsuccessful start, the Turk’s self-confidence has not disappeared anywhere. The coach stated that his team will make it to the final four, and if it fails, he will no longer be in the team next year.
“E. Ataman knows better than anyone else. Nobody said it would be easy. It would be foolish to think that with home advantage we will automatically progress. We still have to win three times”, M. Grigonis commented on his coach’s words.
The second match of the series will be played in Athens on Thursday, and you can follow their progress live on the lrytas.lt portal.
