Tuovo: “John’s unstoppable, legend of Sloukas, but we are ready to write history”

As a historical opportunity for something big, Finland coach Lassi Tuovi is facing his small final Eurobasket opposite Greece.

“It was a big tournament, with ups and downs, but we’re here. We played yesterday against a great team, we play tomorrow with a great team and we are ready to write history. It’s a special moment and we want to enjoy it“, Stressed the Finnish coach.

He does not… fool the bad image of Greece in the semifinals with Turkey. “Sometimes this is sport. The opposing team can find confidence and go right on her and the other loses her confidence. Turkey’s tactic was very good and Greece made many mistakes. It was a perfect plan that was executed in perfect. I will not dwell on the numbers, it is a game and we have watched the previous games, so we know how strong team is Greece“, He said.

Regarding the treatment of Yiannis Antetokounbos, he underlined: “Always the first issue is to deal with John. In a medal game we have to get all our virtues in the parquet. We played great with Serbia and Jokic scored 33 points. It is impossible to stop Antetokounbos, but you have to use your virtues and restrict it or make it difficult for others. If we play our best basketball, it will be difficult for Greece as well”

Regarding pressure management, as Greece has a medal for 16 years, he noted: “And for us it will be our first medal. Both teams were dreaming of the final, but Eurobasket is very difficult. We see legends, such as Sloukas, who has been in the national team for so many years, having the opportunity for a medal. It will be a special match and the atmosphere will be great. It is a historic match for us”

Finally, he shared his thoughts on the big final. “Difficult to say, I would say it’s 50-50. The two teams are one of the best in the world, Germany has experience, and Turkey is playing for the first time with this roster. Will be a very balanced game“