Sanli: “It is very important to close the series as soon as possible”
BARCELONA, 26 May. (EUROPA PRESS) –
Barça base Nicolás Laprovittola admitted that “they may” have “more obligation to win” after losing in the semifinals of the ‘Final Four’ of the Euroleague against Real Madrid, so they hope to get off to a good start in the ‘Playoff’ of the Endesa League and beat Gran Canaria this Friday in the first duel of the series, which will be played at the Palau Blaugrana.
“We may have more obligation to win after losing in Belgrade, but in Barcelona they force you to always win, whether it’s a Euroleague game, ACB or a final. We are hurt by the ‘Final Four’, but the League remains”, the Argentine assured the media prior to the first match of the quarterfinals.
Laprovittola highlighted “the change in the ‘chip'” of the squad after losing in the continental competition and the new challenge they face. “We have been able to rest, especially since the match is on Friday. We try to clear our heads a bit and prepare for what is to come, a very good challenge for us and for the club, which is to win the League”, he added.
Asked about the return to the Palau to start the ‘Playoff’, the Barça team point guard highlighted the importance of the fans for this type of match. “The Palau has always been special, they have been supporting us throughout the year. I have no doubt that everyone will be there. It is important for us,” said Laprovittola, who foresees a great game this Friday against a “tough rival “.
For his part, Barça center Sertaç Sanli insisted on the importance of closing the series “as soon as possible”. For this “it will be essential not to make mistakes or show weaknesses,” added the player, who hopes to benefit from the home court factor. “Playing at home is essential. The fans have supported us throughout the season and we need them,” Sanli said.
On the debacle in Belgrade, the Turk recalled the strength of the team. “It’s hard to control your feelings after what happened, but we are professionals and we all know that we must show our character. We will give everything until the end,” he sentenced.