Sergio Scariolo before Virtus Bologna-Monaco: “They have strengthened a lot”
The Virtus Bologna makes this Friday evening, at 8:30 p.m., its return to the Euroleague against AS Monaco.
If Virtus has recovered its Eurocup MVP, Mam Jaiteh, Milos Teodosic, Toto Shengelia and Awudu Abass are still unavailable.
“Every first match in any competition is always special, there are expectations and worries, but we are very excited for this return to the Euroleague, certifies Sergio Scariolo. Of course we know that we are beginners, even if it is not the case since we were part of the competition 15 years ago, but we have worked hard to be here, especially thanks to the victory in Eurocup. We are convinced that when we achieve good team chemistry and manage to get our injured players on the field, we will be competitive to achieve this dream that the 18 teams have and which are to reach the playoffs. Our opponent is a great team. Last year, they were Final Four level and came within a few baskets of that goal. This year, they have strengthened a lot by acquiring very good players with a lot of physicality and talent. They also play very strong in defense, so they are a top team and a great candidate to do even better this year. We will have to be ready, we are aware that it is a marathon and not a 100 meter sprint, we will do our best to get off to a good start.”
Jordan Mickey adds for his part:
“We are delighted, for the Virtus Segafredo it is a return after a long period. We have a great opportunity to start in front of our fans and we will try to start with a win. Monaco have very good defenders, like Mike James and Jordan Loyd, the wingers are also very good players and we will have to do a good job of slowing them down.”