Mike Tobey, the Slovenian national team player, emphasized the key aspects that Crvena Zvezda will have to control in the match against Bayern.
The team from Belgrade will host the guests from Munich on Thursday at 18:30 in the sixth round of the EuroLeague.
“I feel more comfortable in the new system. I’m still learning how to play with certain guys, and they are learning how to play with me. I’m focusing on things I can control, like energy, defense, and rebounds… I know the rest will come. I’ve been a good offensive player throughout my career, and I’m not worried; the shots will come. I just need to find consistency and maintain the right attitude every day,” Mike Tobey began.
After their victory over Asvel in their elite competition debut, the Red-Whites suffered four consecutive losses, prompting a coaching change. Ioannis Sfairopoulos replaced Dusko Ivanovic. The Greek coach faced a baptism of fire in his first week on the job, with two eternal derby matches on the horizon. Unfortunately, his team couldn’t defeat Partizan, deepening their crisis on the European stage and experiencing their first loss in the ABA league.
“For the most part of the first derby, we played very well. We didn’t start well, but for many, it was their first derby, so there might have been some nervousness, which is normal. We played well for 30 minutes, but not as well in the last five. There are things we need to analyze. I believe we lack consistency and need to string together more good minutes.
There will be tough moments in games, but we have to find a way for them not to be so negative. We need to find rhythm on offense, play better defense, but not sacrifice our game just because it’s a difficult moment. I hope we’ll get back on the right track. We have to play as a team and turn the season around. It’s a tough moment, and we want to get back to winning ways. Playing a good game in front of our fans is what we need,” said the Slovenian center.
Against Bayern, Tobey and the centers of Crvena Zvezda face a challenging task. The German team has the most rebounds per game in the EuroLeague this season (40.4), and a significant portion of the credit goes to the long-time NBA star, Serge Ibaka. Right from the start of the season in Munich, he demonstrated his class, averaging 9.2 points, 7.5 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks in his first four appearances.
“Rebounds will be crucial. They are strong in that department and have a significant number of talented players. We need to prevent them from getting into a rhythm. Ibaka is doing an excellent job with 7.5 rebounds per game. If we limit their offensive rebounds, which play a significant role in their offense, we will have more opportunities to secure a win,” concluded Mike Tobey.