Two teams currently tied at 10-9 and looking to get back to winning ways go head-to-head as Monaco hosts Baskonia.
Sasa Obradovic, Monaco: 'The EuroLeague doesn't forgive mistakes'
Seasons
3 Mins read
Regular Season
Round 20 of 34
Regular Season
AS MonacoASM
9383
Baskonia Vitoria-GasteizBKN
Overview
w
l
l
w
w
l
l
w
l
w
Monaco, which is set to be without Elie Okobo due to an internal suspension, will look for star point guard and league scoring leader Mike James to get the better of another long-range specialist, Markus Howard (fourth-highest scorer in the league). The two guards shined with 28 and 18 points, respectively, when the teams enjoyed a thrilling tussle in Round 10, which ended with Jaron Blossomgame netting a spectacular game-winning putback, 75-77, with 2 seconds remaining.
Sasa Obradovic, Monaco head coach
"We made changes between Maccabi and Olympiacos, but it wasn't enough. The EuroLeague doesn't forgive mistakes. The Barcelona game was a benchmark, particularly in terms of aggression. Maccabi was just the opposite. Baskonia is an important match, not only in terms of the scoreboard but also in terms of confidence. EuroLeague games come down to a few things, and you have to be mentally strong. Jordan Loyd? He's ready, he's going to play. His return is important for us. Chima Moneke? He deserves what's coming to him, he's doing a good job, he's a good person and a good player, and he's left nothing but good memories in our group."
John Brown, Monaco player
"After the two defeats, we need to bounce back. It's important to get going again and keep winning. Baskonia are a dangerous team, and we remember the first leg being very tight and hard-fought. We know that every game is difficult in the EuroLeague, so it's up to us to put in all the right ingredients, with all our determination. We need consistency and toughness in our game. We paid a high price for that in our last two EuroLeague matches. We beat Baskonia at home at the buzzer, and they'll be coming here looking for revenge. We're going to have to be strong mentally and solid defensively. We want to win at home and please the fans who will be behind us."
Mam Jaiteh, Monaco player
"I've always wanted to work for the team, but I was injured at the start of the season and we had to be patient. I'm happy to be getting more playing time, to be able to help my team, and I'm gaining in confidence. The most important thing for us is to get back to winning ways. Every ball will be important, and we'll have to defend hard to set the right pace. We want to make up for the last two defeats. We've prepared well for this match. We need to avoid making any mistakes, and the last thing we want is to have any regrets."