Disappointed Saras: ‘It was a classical way to lose the game in Tel Aviv’ / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: AFP – Scanpix Credit AFP – Scanpix

FC Barcelona (6-1) extended its bad streak in Tel Aviv, where they haven't won since 2016. The Blaugranas lost their first game of the season after an incredible 13-0 run since the Spanish Supercup.

Player of the Game EFF 21 James Nunnally Points 17 Accuracy 6-11 Rebounds 3 Assists 4

Sarunas Jasikevicius spoke after the game focused on how his team started the first quarter.

"It was a classical way to lose the game in Tel Aviv. You came out in the first quarter, and you didn't even get the bonus, so they scored 31 points.

The whole gym is jumping, they are full of confidence. You finish the game with 18 turnovers, 13 assists. Just making childish mistakes," explained the Lithuanian coach.

"Most of the things are the coach's responsibility. We tried to prepare the guys that it is better to foul out in the first quarter than give them confidence. These are the painful losses. You don't lose because you do not understand what's waiting for you, and you can't react", added Jasikevicius, who played two seasons with Maccabi.

Barca's head coach admitted their lack of physicality did not allow them to compete well.

"They were clearly better than us. Maccabi played as we let them play. In EuroLeague, you need to be focused for 40 minutes. If not, and playing away... just go home".

Asked about Rokas Jokubaitis, who scored 4 points in just 8 minutes of action, Jasikevicius said he trusts him.

"I hope his future is in Barcelona. As we said to every young player, nobody will do their work for them. He has an incredible mentality and a great work ethic.

Honestly, he is not going to play a lot of games in a row consistently. He entered the team in a great way as far as the locker room goes. If Rokas is here, it is because we believe him and we love him. Let's not put too much pressure on him, he is just 20", Jasikevicius finished.

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