Pozzecco after debut: 'Players deserved to have a good night but got nothing' / News - Basketnews.com

Gianmarco Pozzecco expresses optimism and trust in ASVEL Villeurbanne despite their fifth consecutive EuroLeague loss, highlighting positive signals and a strong desire to succeed among the players and organization.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

Italian specialist Gianmarco Pozzecco made his debut at the helm of LDCL ASVEL Villeurbanne on Friday night.

Player of the Game EFF 29 Tornike Shengelia Points 18 Accuracy 6-8 Rebounds 5 Assists 4

Despite the French team losing its fifth consecutive EuroLeague game this season, coach Pozzecco sees the light at the end of the tunnel.

"I'm sad tonight. Not for myself, because I am really happy, but I'm just sad for my players who deserved to win," he expressed in the post-game conference. "My players gave absolutely everything on the court. They played with unbelievable effort. They deserved to go out off the court and have a good night together and with their families. I'm so sad.

"I only came here two days ago, and I had to understand which kind of team I have to coach, and right now, I can tell you that I am very happy to be here," he continued. "I really trust my players. The organization is perfect. I feel that everybody here has a desire to do something good.

"I am sad because they [players] deserved to have a good night but got nothing. But we have to look forward; we had many great signals: we passed the ball to each other, and we didn't dribble a lot. Of course, we need a little bit more confidence and connection on defense, but we will have change in any case.

"We can play good basketball. This team can play good defense, right now, I can tell you that. I am really happy," he concluded.

Next week, ASVEL travel to Kaunas to meet Zalgiris on Thursday.

Like what we are doing? You can express your gratitude here.