As the EuroLeague playoff series between Panathinaikos and Valencia reaches a critical juncture, center Mathias Lessort has outlined the team's straightforward objective: secure one more win to advance. Speaking ahead of the fourth quarterfinal matchup, Lessort stressed that the location of the victory is secondary to achieving it.
Lessort emphasized the need for increased physicality and improved defensive effort from his squad. He views the upcoming contest as the most significant one, adopting a singular focus on the immediate challenge rather than looking ahead to a potential fifth game. This mindset, he notes, has been consistent since the season began in September.
The series currently stands at 2-1 in favor of Panathinaikos, meaning they hold a commanding position with two opportunities to clinch the series. The next chance comes on Friday in Athens. Lessort acknowledged that Valencia has demonstrated superior physicality and hunger in previous encounters, suggesting his own team may have become complacent after securing two wins in Valencia.
Despite holding the series lead, Lessort's comments reflect a determination to avoid any sense of satisfaction. He pointed to Valencia's performance as evidence that the Spanish side has been more driven, a factor that contributed to their success in the games played on their home court.
The fourth game of this best-of-five series is scheduled for Friday in Athens. A victory for Panathinaikos would see them progress to the EuroLeague Final Four. For Valencia, it represents a must-win situation to force a decisive fifth game.
Lessort's pragmatic approach underscores the high-stakes nature of playoff basketball, where maintaining focus and intensity is paramount. His call for tougher play and better defense highlights the adjustments Panathinaikos aims to make to close out the series.
Based on reporting from Чемпионат.com.