Obradovic revealed that Vanja Marinkovic missed the game vs. Barca due to an injury caused by cold conditions in the gym during the team's final training session.
Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade suffered their fifth consecutive EuroLeague defeat on Wednesday night, falling to FC Barcelona 87-79 at home.
Partizan faced a 23-point deficit in the third quarter but managed to stage a comeback, closing the gap to just one point (79-80) in the final minutes.
However, Barcelona responded with a decisive 7-0 run, led by Kevin Punter and Alex Abrines, to seal the victory.
"The coach's job is to prepare the game and to communicate constantly. It's not just about what was said before the game. We had a detailed video analysis prepared by the assistant coach, which the players appreciated. Everything was clear and concise, so I didn't feel the need to add further details. We opened the game very well, but then we started conceding baskets, even when we had fouls to give," coach Zeljko Obradovic explained in the post-game conference via Meridiansport.
"We allowed them to get back into the game, and I had to use timeouts to stop their momentum. I ran out of timeouts and had to call two more early in the second half, urging the players to fight back for the sake of the fans," Obradovic added. "They managed to claw their way back, but then we gave up a crucial three-pointer, and that was the turning point. It comes down to experience—or lack thereof. The players on the floor made mistakes. Of course, I'll keep addressing these issues, trying to do what's best for the team. Sometimes it works, sometimes it doesn't. It also depends on their concentration."
When asked if he feels under pressure given the team's poor results, Obradovic was candid:
"I've been in tough situations since I started coaching in 1991. I've never had the luxury of being relaxed. This is just another challenge. Of course, the results aren't what we wanted," he acknowledged. "But we're only a quarter of the way through the season. What's left? Should we replay the film of this game? We will definitely review it with the players, but our main focus now is on the upcoming game against Milan."
Obradovic then emphasized his accountability:
"I am absolutely aware that I am the first responsible person here," Obradovic underlined. "That's how it's always been, and I'm okay with that. What makes me happy is that right after the game, our president, Ostoja Mijailovic, came into the locker room to show his support. He told the players that he believes in them and encouraged them to keep working. We will continue to fight."
Partizan were without key perimeter player Vanja Marinkovic against Barca, who was sidelined due to a back injury caused by the cold conditions in the gym during the last training session.
"With the cold in the arena, Vanja suffered an injury during the final practice. I don't know if he will play on Friday," Obradovic revealed.
With this loss, Partizan's EuroLeague record drops to 2-7 for the season.
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