Cartagena-Málaga
“Final? It’s too soon to talk about that. We’re in a situation where we need to take a step forward. It’s a tricky match, but as coach, I’m getting good vibes from the team. However, this is all about results. If victories or defeats shake us, then we’re not ready for positions of responsibility. We must strive for improvement and be the best version of ourselves, always with the utmost respect for our opponent. In terms of results, we want to break this streak and win.”
Saturday’s rival
“This is a team that has been doing things very well for four years. They are trying, but the numbers speak for themselves. They have top-division players, but that’s the challenge of this league. We have the utmost empathy and respect for our opponent, their new coach is bringing order, even if the results aren’t there yet. Two years ago, we were in a critical situation and managed to string together several wins. Our focus is on delivering our best version and performing at our highest level every day. And I believe that, in terms of what the team is showing, we are in a much better place than at the start of the season.”
Homegrown players
“Performance is built day by day. Young players can make it, not just in terms of form but, more importantly, through their mindset and habits. We have to take it step by step. Now, with injuries and suspensions, we're relying on players from the reserve team. Rafita will be called up with us, and we’re going to place our trust in the reserve team players.”
Current form
“We have to assess things, but in terms of what we're doing, this is the moment I'm happiest. I strongly identify as a coach with what we've achieved in these last four games. Last year, we didn’t reach the level of play we’re showing this season, and that makes me proud of the players' work. Now, we’re going for the three points and aiming to be a chasing team, not a team that others see as prey.”
Calm and ambition
“We have to be ambitious. We have two tricky matches coming up. I actually prefer facing teams in a different situation. In the face of adversity, when people have nothing to lose, they release all their adrenaline and play freely. We need a win as we live by results, and only the last match is remembered. We must stay calm and remain ambitious.”
Message to Unicaja for the Copa ACB
“I want to give my full support to both Ibon and the entire green family. I want to highlight those values of dedication and the ability to inspire people with something that, a few years ago, seemed unthinkable. A big hug to Ibon and best of luck.”