Satoransky reflects on transition from Saras to Grimau, credits summer break / News - Basketnews.com

Tomas Satoransky reflects on physical improvement and adaptation in the second EuroLeague season since his return from the NBA, explains why well-known NBA names choose to play in Europe, and praises Sarunas Jasikevicius as one of the best coaches in his career.

Credit: Dainius Lukšta Credit Dainius Lukšta

On Friday night,Tomas SatoranskyandFC Barcelonasecured a much-needed victory againstZalgiris Kaunasin a Christmas-time EuroLeague game, marking a return to winning form.

Player of the Game EFF 22 Jan Vesely Points 15 Accuracy 6-7 Rebounds 5 Assists 0

The win came after a challenging stretch for Barca, having lost four of their last five games.

"Definitely, it is always very important for our club not to go deeper in losing, especially in the EuroLeague," Satoransky, who had 10 points and 6 assists, stressed in a post-game interview withBasketNews. "That was what, two games lost: one at home [against Milan] and then in Berlin. That was tough.

"Coming here [to Zalgirio Arena], this is always a battle, so it was a great victory in the end," he added. "There were also some up-and-down moments for us; this team [Zalgiris] never stops fighting, so you have to play solid 40 minutes."

With the appointment of Spanish head coachRoger Grimau, the team underwent strategic changes, a realm that 'Sato' is well-acquainted with. Prior to his NBA experience, he spent seven years in Spain -- five with Real Betis (2009-14) and an additional two seasons with the same FC Barcelona (2014-16).

"I mean, different coaches always have different strategies," Satoransky said about the coaching change. "Grimau always was in Spain. He has a big influence

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