Skourtopoulos: “The players are in great shape”

Ahead of the opening match of the 2019 FIBA World Cup against Montenegro, Greek head coach Thanasis Skourtopoulos and Giannis Bourousis spoke to the media.

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It’s showtime in China! On Sunday afternoon, Greece will make their bow at the World Cup, playing Montenegro in a match which the Episimi Agapimeni are fully expected to win. With NBA star Giannis Antetokounmpo in the team, expectations have rocketed for a Greek team full of talent.

Thanasis Skourtopoulos shared his expectations with the press:

Readiness for the competition: “After competing in lots of games in the past two years, we are ready. The team is ready, everyone is ready and they’re in great shape. The atmosphere within the group is good. All teams are strong at this competition, so we have to work hard in order to achieve our target.”

Status as favourites due to the Giannis Antetokounmpo factor: “We don’t have a problem with this, but we know that we have to fight hard and qualify for the next phase. Yes, it’s true that we have the Most Valuable Player of the NBA on our team, but we have other great players too. Basketball is a team game, not an individual sport.”

Thoughts on Montenegro: “We know how to cope with their tactics. We are expecting Montenegro to try and slow the pace of the game, but we’re ready to conjure up a response. Our players understand how to deal with these situations.”

Worries ahead of the competition: “In my opinion, the team is playing at 80% of its capabilities right now, but I hope that will rise to 100%. The preparation process has been excellent. However, if we want to win a medal, we have to work hard. No one will give us a medal just because we have fantastic players. We must play in the correct manner.”

Pressure of returning home with a medal: “I wouldn’t say that it is a weight on our shoulders. Our aim is to win matches.”

Giannis Bourousis wants to do the talking on the court:

Expectations for the World Cup in China: “Welcome to China, I’ve been playing in this country for two years. For us, it’s hugely important to be successful and play just as well in matches as we do in training sessions. It won’t be easy, but this team is moving forward. We must be focused, correct the mistakes which were made in the past and be ready to take the next step.”

Match against Montenegro: “Montenegro have a very good team. We must play well if we want to win. They have stand-out players. It’s a tough match because it is the first at the competition, and it won’t be easy for either team.”

Upcoming game with Brazil: “They have a good team, every opponent is strong. We must play at our level in order to advance. There are a lot of high expectations for us because Giannis Antetokounmpo is on the roster. Giannis will help us be successful. It’s been 10 years since we have achieved something. Let’s stop the talking and show our mettle on the court.”

by Shaun Nicolaides

Image Source: gazzetta.gr

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