Showing improvement in all areas of the game compared to the previous pre-season friendlies, the Panathinaikos prevailed by a score 98-82 of Cluj at “Andreas Papandreou” for the 4th “Nikos Fassouras” tournament, with Luka Vildosa and Kostas Sloukas as protagonists.
Speaking to News Bulletin 247 and to the “green” reporter, George Petridisthe service technician tonight of the “clover” and a direct collaborator of Ergin Ataman, Christos Serelisreferred to the team’s preparation, to the many new faces, but also to the philosophy of the Turkish coach.
At the same time, he also mentioned when he will present himself ready Panathinaikos will get a good performance and play in its standard matcheswhile he also commented on the course of our National team in the World Cup.
In detail what he said to News Bulletin 247 and George Petridis:
For friendly first impressions: “There is a lot we want to see. First, what can the kids do on offense. The other is to see some defensive adjustments. It is not easy because we are missing key players in many positions. For a week now we have run a lot, we have made offensive adjustments and we need work in defense for the demanding games of the Euroleague”.
On how the team will bond with the new faces: “It’s hard. But when the coach is very good, as are the players, I think it’s easier. Seriousness is required, everyone tries to adapt to the coach’s philosophy. We had the misfortune of missing it. From tomorrow the Ataman will be here and from Monday all the internationals will be here to prepare and be ready for the first games of the season which are big for us”.
On his impressions of working with Ergin Ataman: “He’s a winning man, his trophies say so. It is important that he transmits this calm to the players and has the conviction to go through what he wants in an easy way. What he requires from us and himself is to give freedom to the team and certainly respect all the rules on the field.”
When to expect Panathinaikos ready: “I think that Panathinaikos cannot be ready too quickly under any circumstances. The season is huge. We have 11 new players and let them have great quality. Given that many good and bad times will come. The best possible would be for Panathinaikos to be ready towards the end of the season where everything is judged. It is important to build such a team that will win on difficult days”.
About the Greek National Team and what it has been missing in recent years: “This national team was not the best we could have made. I’m not implying anything about the guys who played. They tried their best. There wasn’t much chance we could do better than what we did. We couldn’t have expected anything better. What we see in other teams that are successful is that they have a long-term plan, stick to it and work on it for 3-4 years. Those who have done it have succeeded. You need a big core, to be the same, and all your good players to play.”
Source: Sport Fm
I am currently a news writer for News Bulletin247 where I mostly cover sports news. I have always been interested in writing and it is something I am very passionate about. In my spare time, I enjoy reading and spending time with my family and friends.
