Kyle Weems on edgy EuroCup format: 'People are going through tough times and that's the real pressure' / News - Basketnews.com

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

Kyle Weems was one of the instrumental Virtus Bologna players last night, when the Italian squad defeated Lietkabelis Panevezys in 7DAYS EuroCup eight finals game.

Player of the Game EFF 22 Kyle Weems Points 13 Accuracy 5-7 Rebounds 4 Assists 4

The 32-year-old registered 13 points (3/3 2PT, 2/4 3PT, 1/1 FT), 4 rebounds, 4 assists, 4 steals, 1 turnover, and a game-high 22 PIR.

Weems' contribution massively helped his team to feel a rhythm against rock-solid Lietkabelis' defense. As stated by the player post-game, the Lithuanian powerhouse deserves recognition for the great effort on its own end.

"Lietkabelis have one of the best defenses in the competition. They are physical and tough. They pressure the ball, can do switches, and are really aggressive on playmakers. Their place and defensive stats speak for themselves. You have to give them credit," Virtus athlete told BasketNews.

Asked about pressure, Weems had his own point of view on how to avoid collapses in crucial moments.

"I don't really like to call it pressure because it's basketball. This is our job, we get paid for playing this wonderful game. There are a lot of people in the world, who are going through tough times. That's pressure.

I don't think it's pressure but it's a little bit smaller room for an error or mistake. So, the focus level and the attention to detail have to be higher. The most important thing is to understand that every possession matters."

According to the small forward, their fourth place in the regular season came within many factors, which did not let Virtus be higher in the final standings.

"There are a lot of factors but I do not want to give any excuses. Between COVID and injuries, this was one of the first times when we finally were playing together.

Points this season

49%83,9Points made:83,9Accuracy:48,8%Place in standings:5Record max:104Record min:62Best scorer:Kyle WeemsTeamEuroCupStatisticsSchedule

Also, putting multiple practices and games together. We finally got Marco Belinelli, our captain, back, who has been big for us. Those are all the causes why we finished fourth.

I think we did a great job whatever players were on the roster and we're trying our best. Coach Scariolo also did a great job, shifting lineups. It has not been easy but we are in a good place right now and that's all it matters," Weems said.

Moreover, the American sportsman commented on the latest reinforcements on the team, involving the former CSKA Moscow duo of Tornike Shengelia and Daniel Hackett.

"Unbelievable guys, unbelievable people before basketball players. Adding guys this late in the season, you have to have good character guys. On top of that, they are very good basketball players which makes everything easier.

They are great professionals, who take care of their bodies. They are vocal and bring energy, professionalism. I think they can fit in any team and they are a perfect fit for us."

Weems also touched on the topic of the upcoming quarterfinals over Ratiopharm Ulm, who stunned the European basketball community, beating first-seeded Joventut Badalona in an away match.

"The way this competition is now, it's crazy. It's a do-or-die, single elimination. If you do not bring your A-game and focus, an upset can happen. You have to give Ulm credit.

We have a lot of respect for them. They played tough against us there. Also, they beat us in Germany. We have a lot of respect for them and their program," Weems praised the next opponent.

Last but not least, Virtus player stressed the new EuroCup format, which is more challenging for favorites.

"I think every competitor would like to play at least three games in a series. The attention to detail, the focus you have to bring for the whole season and it comes down to a single game. It's tough. But there cannot be any excuses.

It's just very important to have that focus, energy, and enthusiasm each and every game either at home or on the road, so you don't have to leave the arena with a bad taste in your mouth," Weems finished.

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