Dusko Ivanovic: The second half? Crvena Zvezda was more quality, we need to improve
0![Dusko Ivanovic: The second half? Crvena Zvezda was more quality, we need to improve Dusko Ivanovic](https://basketballsphere.com/en/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/dusko-ivanovic-1.jpg)
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Dusko Ivanovic, coach of Baskonia, spoke after the game against Crvena Zvezda, addressing the EuroLeague and the 13th round.
Prior to this match, Dusko Ivanovic led a team that was in top form in the league, with six victories in seven games. After this game, the team’s form has only improved, as the Montenegrin coach secured another triumph in a dramatic finish.
“An important win, I believe, in this match. Both Baskonia and Crvena Zvezda showed that we have quality. We demonstrated our quality in the first half, where we played solid defense and showed patience in our attacks. In the second half, Crvena Zvezda was better, dominating in offensive play. They have a lot of quality in their offense, but I think, in the end, especially with this series, after Crvena Zvezda gained a lead, we played well. We once again had a 10-point advantage.”
“I wanted to say that the possession lasted about 3 or 4 seconds, and in the end, they made a three-pointer. Especially in the third quarter, I think we lacked patience. We didn’t attack their defense intelligently when they played aggressively. I believe that was our problem. In the end, these guys show that if they believe, if they fight, and if they have patience, we can play against anyone. In the end, you can win, you can lose, but we will always be there, which is most important. We can talk about many things regarding the game, but in the end, everything worked out. The team mostly manages to pull out games in the end.
Many EuroLeague games will be decided by one possession. Almost everyone plays very well, everyone has good teams, and everyone can beat everyone. It’s important to get to that last moment and know how to play it. We should have fouled Rokas when he made the shot tonight. We wanted to, but we didn’t do it. It could have been very… In the end, we won, but we had to foul before they made the three-pointer and tied the game.”
“Well, I am very satisfied with my players. Honestly, they fight, stay focused, want to win, and everything we have planned so far has worked for us. As I’ve already said, a coach can’t score or defend. Players do that, they win games. A coach can only lose, not win.”
“We won’t comment on the officiating. I apologize, I won’t comment on the officiating.”