Vasilije Micic on Efes season: 'I don't think we failed' / News - Basketnews.com

Micic admitted that the season did not go as well as the team hoped but didn't call it a failure, saying that the players still have a lot to learn about each other. He singled out Will Clyburn and congratulated him on doing well after an injury scare in Game 2.

Credit: D.Lukšta Credit D.Lukšta

Anadolu Efes Istanbul captured the Turkish League (BSL) trophy in a 3-game sweep against Pinar Karsiyaka but the bittersweet feeling remained in the hearts of the team's fans.

2-pointers this season

57%19,6Points made:19,6Accuracy:57,4%Place in standings:10Record max:26Record min:14Most made 2FGs:Will ClyburnTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

Efes were initially viewed as one of the favorites to win the EuroLeague but did not even make it to the playoffs and finished the regular season in 11th place. For a team that had won the league for two years in a row before, it was a huge disappointment.

However, the club's biggest star Vasilije Micic doesn't see it that way.

"I don't think we had an unsuccessful season in the EuroLeague. It was a new situation for us too. Shane Larkin was injured and absent for a long time. Shane was my favorite teammate. Krunoslav Simon was not there [as well], and I missed him very much," he said after the title-clinching Game 3.

"We played well lately, we had found a good rhythm but it wasn't enough for the playoffs. We were humble, that is, we didn't take the results personally. Finally, we finished the season well. If we protect the [team] core in the next season too… I think we have a special team, special individuals," he continued. "We're a good team. I don't think we failed this season. I think we have a lot to learn about each other."

The season ended on a higher note by reclaiming the BSL title. In the end, Micic was happy.

"I feel very happy. I'm happy for my team. We've been here for 5 years and it's a very long period when you look at it [from a distance]. The core of the team has been together for 5 years. The coach, the medical team, everyone… First of all, I want to congratulate them for what they did for us and for me," Micic said.

"I especially want to congratulate Will Clyburn. I was so scared when he got injured in the previous game," the star guard told. "I [once] had the same injury. I'm also very happy that Clyburn is doing well."

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