Sarunas Jasikevicius remains calm after the loss against Olympiacos / News - Basketnews.com

The Lithuanian specialist admitted FC Barcelona lacked consistency in a loss against Olympiacos Piraeus at home in the EuroLeague season opener.

Credit: ZUMAPRESS.com - Scanpix Credit ZUMAPRESS.com - Scanpix

FC Barcelona could not handle Olympiacos Piraeus efficiency in the last quarter, suffering their first loss of the EuroLeague season (70-80).

The Blaugranas tried to erase an 11-point deficit in the second half, but Giannoulis Larentzakis' daggers sealed the game.

After the game, Barcelona head coach Sarunas Jasikevicius appeared in the press conference to analyze the loss. The Lithuanian specialist admitted that Barca's lack of consistency was one of the keys in the game.

"We were not smart enough to read the different situations, especially on offense," admitted Jasikevicius. "We could not read their switching defense. We made bad decisions at critical moments. We showed character and reacted a couple of times, but we lacked consistency."

Despite losing for the third time in five games this season, Jasikevicius recognized he feels optimistic about his team.

"I have no doubts about this team. The most important thing is to learn how to play well against these teams over long periods of time. Not just sparks or short periods," said the Lithuanian coach.

When asked about the few practices he has had with his whole team, Jasikevicius preferred not to use excuses.

"I think we have signed intelligent players. They have been in the elite for many years, and they have been coached in different philosophies so they can adapt. We cannot hide behind the lack of practices, even if it is a reality. When you play at Barca, you have to win," said the coach.

Cory Higgins scored 10 points in 20 minutes of action, showing character in the last quarter. Jasikevicius praised his effort despite an irregular first rotation.

"He needs some more practice and games. He entered a bit shaky, perhaps because he was not ready yet. But afterward, he has been pretty good on both ends of the floor, especially defensively on Sloukas. He has taken responsibility in the end. This is positive," concluded Jasikevicius.

Thank you for reading us! We have even more content for you.