Papanikolaou: “Our legs are heavy, we have to find solutions with the long shots”

Kostas Papanikolaou stressed that the players of the national basketball team are tired from the intense preparation, he asked that other options be found in the attack when the long shots are not included, so that the team can present themselves ready for the World Championship, he asked that they find a way not to “chase ” the score, while he focused on the “thirst” and the good atmosphere that prevails in the representative group.

Analytically:

“When a good situation arises that calls for a free kick to be taken, the shot should be taken, because it is the right choice. For this shot we work on every attack. We are in the preparation period, the legs are a bit “heavy”. Sure, we won’t be the most accurate team in long shots, but we have to get the best options. We will have to find other ways, through our defense which should be a constant value, to “build” our game.

Trainings are intense because that’s how it should be in this period and it’s normal for children to feel their bodies heavy. The point is to show up ready for the tournament. This team has to work hard in the game, on every possession, and can’t afford to look any further into the tournament than the Jordan matchup.

The positive thing is that the children have the “thirst”. It’s encouraging that we’re back in the game, but we’ll have to see why we’re falling behind on the scoreboard. The friendlies were useful, against difficult teams that can highlight our weaknesses. The same can be done in the friendlies with USA and Germany. We have children who know where they are, the opportunity they have and they have all come “thirsty” for the best effort. This is the most important thing.

The atmosphere in the team is very good. What you see, that’s it, you can’t sell something fake. All the children put in an excellent effort and give their best. Let’s not forget that, above all, we represent our country and not ourselves.”