Bartzokas: “The expectations are high and we will try to fulfill them”

Especially happy with the win (86-78) of Olympiakos over Baskonia and for taking first place in the regular season in this year’s Euroleague, it was George Bartzokas.

“Finishing in the toughest Euroleague ever I want to give credit to the players, the fans, the staff for the first place. I think we were consistent in the marathon and that’s why we finished first. I don’t want to say anything competitive, now we want two days off to clear our minds and prepare for the play-offs“, initially stated the coach of the “red and white” at the press conference.

On the renewal of Walkup and McKissick: “It is a great satisfaction to help the huge organization of Olympiakos to improve. It is a very good working environment, the presidents and those of us who work here have succeeded. A group of people on the floor has proven to be a winning team in general. They’ve got a good attitude, they’re motivated and they respect the shirt and with the model they’ve got the management respects them and it shows, so I’m happy».

Regarding the fact that the games are not held on the same day and time: “In many cases a solution has not been found, let’s rely on the reliability of the groups. Everyone is playing for the win, we have to go back a long time to see some who chose an opponent, the motivation is great. I respect Peniarojas who has to wait, we did everything we could not to wait».

On whether Olympiacos are favorites in the play-offs: “In order to be first, we showed seriousness and consistency throughout the year. That doesn’t guarantee we’ll be ready, but I’m optimistic. The biggest problem we have created is that expectations are beyond normal. I don’t know if it’s because we’re enthusiastic. Everyone is demanding the trophy which we know how difficult it is. We will do our best, the opponents are also playing and the eight are strong. If you see the quality of players and coaches who were left out, you understand it. We have created this environment, the expectations are high and we will try to fulfill them».

On whether it is a difficult decision which foreigner will be cut from the Basket League: “I’ve started thinking about it, but it’s incredibly difficult. One team wins and everyone has a contribution but I have to make this decision».