Andrea Trinchieri, the head coach of Zalgiris, spoke to the media after the game against Milano in the EuroLeague’s 32nd round.
The Lithuanian team secured their third consecutive win. They defeated Milano after a brilliant second half and ultimately secured a win that could be crucial in the potential battle for the play-in.
“What a night! What an atmosphere, what a game, what players I have… Even the best producer couldn’t script this. We played against the team currently in the best form in the EuroLeague, as they had just defeated Monaco and Fenerbahce. In the first half, we shot 4/16 from three-point range, missing many open shots. I told the team, if we hit two three-pointers, we’ll spread our wings and take off. I’m very happy for my players, the entire organization, and I thank all the fans for pushing us towards win in this game,” began Andrea Trinchieri.
About Edmond Sumners
“Where have you been for the last three months? Trinchieri joked, then continued: “He’s a very positive person, very grateful to work with. He’s very talented, it’s his first year in the EuroLeague, he had a lot of mistakes, bad games, foul trouble… A lot of water had to pass under the bridge for him to deliver such a performance. I was tough on him, but this is the real reward I could get. It’s like we’ve signed a new player. I believe he’s also lucky, the ovations at the end of the game for him were completely deserved.”
Regarding the potential qualification for the Play-In
“Would you allow us to celebrate for at least three hours? We’ll celebrate until midnight, and then we’ll see what we have to do. Right now, I just want to enjoy, both me and my players. We still have very little chance, but that’s better than having none at all.”
About Lukas Lekavicius
“I believe he’s had many good games. He’s our ‘microwave,’ if you remember, I think he’s our Vinnie Johnson (former Detroit Pistons player). He scores points, plays defense, goes to the bench, and never changes his expression. He could have had only two careers: in basketball or as a serial killer. He’s very mentally strong, he knows I love him very much.”
Zalgiris will play their next EuroLeague game away against Monaco, while Milano will host Virtus.