Pablo Laso Aims for Success After Narrow Win Against Real Madrid

Laso acknowledged the difficulties faced last season, emphasizing that while injuries were a significant challenge, they should not serve as an excuse for the team's performance. He stated, “Last year was really difficult for us. Injuries are the biggest obstacle to getting what you expect from your team in sports. I think injuries are part of the game, but they cannot be an excuse. That is why we need to analyse last season’s difficulties from several angles.”

He outlined three primary focus areas for the roster changes: creativity, athleticism, and rebounding. However, he noted that despite the emphasis on rebounding, the team was outrebounded by 15 against Real Madrid, which was not ideal news for his argument.

“I think there were three reasons: first, creativity; second, athleticism; third, rebounding. Perhaps it is not the best day to say that when we have been outrebounded by 15. But looking at the bigger picture, we built our roster with those areas in mind for such a demanding season,” Laso said.

Despite the hurdles, Laso maintains a hopeful outlook, having joined Efes with aspirations of winning the EuroLeague. He clarified, however, that his immediate focus is on upcoming games.

“I am a very optimistic person. I came here last year believing we would become EuroLeague champions. But sometimes, time shows you the reality. The only thing on my mind is the next game.”

He also mentioned that learning about other coaches being dismissed has reinforced his focus on performance, stating, “Today I saw some news about coaches being fired. So when I see that, I say, ‘Let’s win on Thursday first.’”