Do you agree with the opinion that Olympiacos was a bit unlucky because Fener is the eighth?
«That’s right, because we are not an eighth place team! However, we missed many opportunities to achieve higher and qualify us earlier. Sometimes these things also happen… I want to say that perhaps Fenerbahçe should have faced Olympiacos in the qualifiers. Under normal circumstances, such coupling should not occur.»
What do you expect from the atmosphere at SEF, what – do you think – will be the welcome you will receive from the Olympiacos fans and what is the first Greek thing you would like to do when you land in Athens?
«I probably won’t do anything unless we win the match first. I’m going to focus fully on the requirements of the series, but if we win, I’ll probably visit one of my favorite restaurants. As for the reception, I am sure the atmosphere will be crazy and hostile and since I am not playing in Olympiacos this year, I will not be popular at all with the fans. Personally, I enjoy playing basketball under these conditions! These games bring out the best in me. Like last year when Panathinaikos fans booed me, I like to play the ‘bad guy’ role and be the center of the boos. It gives me tremendous energy. to tell you the truth; I don’t want to like SEF, I prefer the opposite! On the other hand, of course, I really appreciate my former teammates and there are still Olympiacos fans who follow me and write to me on social media. They will not like me at all during the playoffs, but when the time for the national team comes again, they will change their position. It’s okay, I totally understand why and because it’s part of the game. Sports fans always have strong feelings, especially when it comes to their favorite team.»
Which team will qualify?
«What do you mean; I believe in the potential but also in our abilities, I believe we can do it and every day we prepare hard and with confidence to achieve the Final Four goal. I estimate that there will be very tough matches, it will be very tough. series.»
Assuming you chose Fenerbahçe instead of the Olympiacos series, tell me the other three teams that will travel to Kaunas?
«I think Barcelona will eliminate Zalgiris. The other two series of Real with Partizan and Monaco with Maccabi, I think they are very open and there is no clear favorite. »
Last but not least. Greek national team. What is your impression so far of your stay in Greece?
«We have a very good group. It will be an exciting summer before the World Cup. Several national teams will be bolstered with big-name players, and we’ll play very strong friendlies in Greece and abroad, culminating in the game against the USA in Abu Dhabi, so I’m excited for the play-offs to come, for an August trip with the Greek national team. I am looking forward to…»
What do you think of the news that Thomas Woukop has received a Greek passport and is available for the national team?
«I read it online and the truth is I had no idea and was surprised. But I’m glad he’s on the team! Obviously there are things that need clarification, but his addition to the squad brings an extra quality to the national team, which we’ll need. Because many countries add players with passports, fatally raising the level of our opponents. A player like Walkup will make us stronger. »
Was it a surprise to you?
«I have no idea. When we were teammates, no such thing was mentioned, and I didn’t know such a possibility existed. To some extent, yes it was a surprise!»
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