T. Masiulis "took a shot" at the pupil who mocked him: "is improving somewhat"
Lithuanian basketball coach T. Masiulis reflects on the team's readiness for an upcoming match against Olympiakos, emphasizing the importance of focus and strategy.
Before the crucial match against Olympiakos, Lithuanian coach T. Masiulis highlighted the importance of maintaining focus throughout the full 40 minutes of play. He indicated that the team must play according to their own rules and withstand the physicality of their opponents, emphasizing that they are a Final Four team. Masiulis acknowledged that they played poorly in their previous encounter with Olympiakos and expressed a commitment to learning from that experience, noting that they will have most of their players available for the upcoming game.
In the previous matchup, Olympiakos defeated Zalgiris 95-78, which marked a significant challenge for Masiulis and his team. There is uncertainty whether the star player from Olympiakos, Aleksandras Vezenkov, who has been averaging 23.4 effectiveness points per game but is currently injured, will participate in the upcoming game. Despite this uncertainty, Masiulis is preparing his team with the expectation that Vezenkov may return, illustrating the unpredictability of sports injuries and player recoveries.
Masiulis's comments reflect not only on the tactical preparations needed to counteract Olympiakos but also highlight the psychological preparations necessary for his team. The coach's approach to the game emphasizes resilience and adaptability, crucial traits for success in high-stakes competitions. This match holds significant implications for both teams, as they strive for advancement in the tournament.