Zeljko Obradovic: 'Our goal is to play and stay in the EuroLeague' / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: AP - Scanpix Credit AP - Scanpix

After leaving Partizan Belgrade in 1993, Zeljko Obradovic coached Joventut Badalona for a season. Now their roads meet again in the 7DAYS EuroCup Round 12 clash in Palau Olimpic De Badalona.

3-pointers this season

33%8,4Points made:8,4Accuracy:33,3%Place in standings:15Record max:14Record min:4Most made 3FGs:Zach LeDayTeamEuroCupStatisticsSchedule

Ahead of tonight's game, the legendary coach sat down for an interview on the Catalan RAC 1 radio with journalist Marc Mundet about his life in Belgrade, this season's goals, and memories from Spain.

"When I saw the calendar and saw that I had to come to Badalona, I thought I would see a lot of friends," Zeljko started the interview. "I'm very happy to be here."

With Joventut, Obradovic won the 1993-1994 FIBA European League, the predecessor to the modern EuroLeague. Led by Ferran Martinez and Jordi Villacampa, the Catalan club beat Olympiacos in the final 59-57.

"The match against the Peña [Joventut's nickname] is very important for both teams. With this system of competition, trying to have the best position for the matchups and having a field advantage is very important," Obradovic continued.

The legendary specialist returned to his home club after years of coaching other teams.

"I've been back at Partizan because it's been my team, all my life. I love Partizan, I love these colors," Zeljko expressed. "It's a very special club. I've returned home after 30 years. I'm really happy there."

Obradovic has been coaching clubs for more than 30 years. He's seen it all, he's won it all. Is this his last season?

"I don't think so," Zeljko was blunt. "I've signed for three years and I hope it goes well. Then we'll see. I don't think it's the last team. I'm excited and I'm very happy. I love my job."

Being the winningest coach in European basketball, the ambitions and goals are always at the highest level.

"Our goal is to play in the EuroLeague again. But not to be there for a year, that's enough. We want to stay there," Zeljko shared in the radio program.

Sarunas Jasikevicius and Zeljko Obradovic in Panathinaikos AthensCredit REUTERS - Scanpix

Zeljko has coached many all-time greats, including the current FC Barcelona head coach Sarunas Jasikevicius. What does the legendary coach think about one of his best point guards?

"Saras is doing a very good job," Zeljko noted. "Last year he did a great job, winning the ACB, the Spanish Cup, and reaching the EuroLeague final. He is an ambitious person in an ambitious club. You can feel his touch and you can see that the team is following him."

Partizan currently sit 3rd in the 7DAYS EuroCup Group A with 8 wins and 3 losses, while Joventut are at the top of the group with 9 victories and only 2 defeats.

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