Zeljko Obradovic, fascinated by Partizan fans' support, names keys to ABA League derby / News - Basketnews.com

Zeljko Obradovic talked about Partizan's derby vs. Crvena Zvezda for the ABA League and praised his team's fans for their support.

Credit: IMAGO/MN Press Photo-Scanpix Credit IMAGO/MN Press Photo-Scanpix

Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade coach Zeljko Obradovic appeared in the show '60 Minutes with Vlada and Aco' on MaxBet Radio, where he spoke about the EuroLeague double round his team played in Italy, as well as the next challenges ahead of them.

2-pointers this season

56%21,0Points made:21,0Accuracy:56,2%Place in standings:5Record max:29Record min:13Most made 2FGs:Mathias LessortTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

"It's not easy to play after 48 hours, everyone knows that," the 63-year-old tactician said.

"We played two different games: a good one against Virtus Bologna (88-79) and one of our weakest in the season against EA7 Emporio Armani Milan (62-76). It's a result of fatigue, both mental and physical and all that travel and playing at that rhythm requires, but that's the way it is," Obradovic commented.

Right now, Partizan are placed 7th with a 15-13 balance. However, Cazoo Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz, Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv, and Zalgiris Kaunas are up there as well, creating a four-team tie.

"There are six more games left in the EuroLeague, it remains to be seen where we will end up and what we can do.”

Obradovic then looked at Partizan's chances for a playoff berth.

"The good thing is that a lot depends on us. Whatever it looks like, we have a tough schedule. First is Efes away, then come three consecutive games at home: Olympiacos, Barcelona, and Real Madrid. Then it's Monaco on the road and Panathinaikos at home.

When we started this month with a game against Split, it was evident that we were going to play seven out of our 11 games against [former] European champions. There's no reason not to believe in ourselves and not to try to do everything in our power to stay in the situation we are in now,” Obradovic pointed out before referring to the team's fans.

"What I found fascinating about this journey was the number of our fans. I have no words to thank them for all their support throughout the season and I expect them to continue to do so until the end.

They come from all over Europe. These are people who follow us wherever we go. In Italy, everyone was delighted with the way they cheered the team. This is an example of loyalty to the club. It really looked fascinating," Obradovic praised Partizan's fanbase.

The ABA League derby between Red Star and Partizan will decide who gets the home-court advantage in the playoffs, as Zvezda are at 17-2, while their city rivals stand at 18-2.

Credit ABA League/Dragana Stjepanovic

"Everyone knows how important that derby is," Obradovic said.

"Amidst all the EuroLeague games that were important for both, it was time to meet each other in the ABA League. We're getting ready and we'll discuss the last things about tactics, but I think it's a game where tactics are the least important element," the nine-time EuroLeague-winning coach stressed.

"What matters is the energy, the desire, and the understanding of what this game brings," he concluded.

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