Saras: 'Defence must improve'

Saras Jasikevicius and Pau Gasol addressed the media at the press conference prior to this Sunday’s Euroleague final against Anadolu Efes. Coach Ergin Attaman and player Shane Larkin took part on behalf of the Turkish team. Below we review the highlights of the press conference.

Saras Jasikevicius

"We are where we wanted to be at the beginning of the season, we had a demanding match and we were able to rest to start preparing for the final."

"We have to improve our defence a lot, as the only good defending in the semifinals came in the last quarter. We have to be much more physical and focused to make them uncomfortable.”

"We have to show our mentality and strength to face tomorrow's game."

"Nick Calathes has been tested. It's nothing serious and before the match we will decide if he can play."

"For a team with new staff and new players like Pau Gasol two months ago, it's important to win, but you have to learn."

"In the semi-final match we couldn't punish our opponent in certain aspects. We'll have had 48 hours to learn, there is little time left and we have to improve.”

Pau Gasol

"Every game has been a challenge. I'm trying to enjoy it and contribute to the team. I want to do my best and give it my all.”

"Anadolu Efes play a good game because otherwise they would not be here. There are no secrets."

"It's a final and we have to prepare well, to be focused, with discipline and confidence in order to win."

“Every challenge in my career has been different. This one, without a doubt, is very special.” 

Ataman: "All the regular season matches against Barça have been like a final"

Turkish team coach Ergin Ataman stressed at the press conference that "both teams deserve to win the title" and that their team "plays a fast game and gives freedom to the players, especially in attack."

For his part, Shane Larkin referred to the attitude that the team must have: "It will be a very competitive match and we must have defensive intensity."