Partizan beats Olympiacos (90:75) in front of a record-breaking home crowd. Europe’s big names keep falling in the Belgrade Arena, as the Black and Whites slowly but surely approach the Euroleague Top 8.
The opening quarter of R30 was great for the Serbian side (27:22). They began easing themselves into their style during the following ten minutes. After the first half Partizan had a comfortable lead (48:34). Then came the notorious third quarter. If they were to keep the lead, the Black and Whites would have it in the bag. If not… Olympiacos had a great shooting percentage, averaging 73% in the 2FG area, making fast and easy points over the opponent.
However, the absence of head coach Georgios Bartzokas who is recovering from a milder case of COVID, was apparent. While Oly, currently the best European squad, were missing their three-point shots, Partizan were very much making them. Especially when it mattered most, averaging 41,4%.
Despite the guests managing to cut the difference down to 60:50 by the start of the final quarter, the home side stayed put. Shots by Exum, Punter and Nunnally were making their mark. It was the continuity that brought this game into a routine closure, for another victory of the Men in Black (and White). Scoring 19 points for the home team was James Nunnally, while McKissick showed a great rendition for Olympiacos with his 21 points.
The Belgrade crowd of 20.003 marked a new Euroleague record for the season – all the more reason to celebrate.
Coach Obradović: “I have many reasons to be proud”
Coach Obradović spoke to the media after the win: “I have many reasons to be proud of how we played, except for the third quarter. It was a bit problematic for us. We controlled the rest of the game with aggressiveness defensively and played smart offensively. The key was to shoot. Every time we shot at the goal it was a good shot. Sometimes we missed, but generally speaking, it was a very good shooting selection. A thanks to the fans for one more incredible night.“
On the match preparation: “I am happy with how we played. We had an unusual number of training sessions for this part of the season… It was due to us not playing against Budućnost. I gave the players three days to refresh and they obviously benefited from that.”
On the first half and Euroleague standings: “During the first half, when we had a 14-point lead Olympiacos were scoring some easy points from under the hoop. We had controlled the rest… I truly am proud of my players. I don’t see the reason to look at the standings and our position. We need to look ahead, and the first thing that lays ahead is a very important match against Olimpija in the ABA Liga. Which we will play without Lessort, as well as two more (in ABA, ed.). I told the players to go straight home, to sleep, rest and get ready for tomorrow’s training session.”
“The record is incredible. All that the fans are doing this season is incredible!”
Coach then spoke of his team’s spirit: “What makes me happier than the victory is that the players aren’t selfish. They aren’t selfish. That is the point of this game. For you to be a team player and to enjoy all of it. Because all that they are living this year, alongside these fans is truly special. I have no dilemmas that they will remember it for the rest of their lives. Just like me. I will remember this my entire life. This is incredible. (…) I am proud.”, stated Obradović as he continues to fortify his legend status amongst the Black and White fans.
With their amazing grip and other Euroleague results working in their favor, Partizan are now essentially one match away from the coveted Top 8.
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