Coach Svetislav Pesic prepares Serbia for their quarterfinal clash against Australia, highlighting the difficulty of their opponent. He remains confident that the team will be ready, despite some health concerns.
Serbia's basketball team is gearing up for the most crucial part of the Olympic Games as they face Australia in the quarterfinals.
Coach Svetislav Pesic acknowledged the challenge ahead, stating that Australia is the toughest opponent they could have drawn.
"We have the toughest opponent in this stage, Australia is absolutely the toughest opponent we could have drawn," Pesic said, emphasizing Australia's strong team continuity and experience, especially with key NBA players.
Pesic noted the importance of playing solid defense in transition to prevent easy points.
"Every game is important, including the one against South Sudan. We must play solid defense in transition to prevent easy points from fast breaks," said the coach. "In Abu Dhabi, Australia scored 40 points in transition against us. They play clean basketball with no tricks."
He stressed the importance of reducing transition points to impose Serbia's game.
Reflecting on the team's preparation, Pesic commented on the recent victory over South Sudan(96-85) and the team's improved defense.
"We are better than we were on June 24 when we started. The game against South Sudan was fantastic; we managed to withstand their pressure and changed our game rhythm in the third quarter," he highlighted the team's ability to adjust under pressure.
Pesic mentioned Jovic's health and downplayed concerns about Vasa[Vasilije Micic] and Jokic's knee bandages.
"Jovic is not feeling well, but he will be ready for the match" He also noted that the knee bandages are standard precautions.
The team remains focused solely on the upcoming game against Australia.
"We don't think about the draw or the next stages, just Australia," Pesic concluded.
First point guard Aleksa Avramovic shared his expectations, recognizing Australia's strengths.
"We face an exceptionally good opponent who runs well, similar to South Sudan, with a lot of physicality," Avramovic said. "We've regenerated and are entering the game fully motivated, knowing we lost to them in the preparatory period without many key players."
He emphasized the importance of strong defense, which separates Serbia's players from the basket and the ball, giving Serbia a chance for victory.
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