Cedi Osman reflected on Panathinaikos’ tough home loss to Paris Basketball, emphasizing the need for better early-game execution. He also reaffirmed his desire to stay in Athens.
Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens suffered a rare home defeat in the EuroLeague after 10 consecutive home wins, falling to Paris Basketball 101-98 in a game where they struggled early but mounted a late comeback.
| Player of the Game | |
|
EFF
36
|
| TJ Shorts II | |
| Points | 20 |
| Accuracy | 7-16 |
| Rebounds | 9 |
| Assists | 14 |
One of the key figures in the battle, Cedi Osman, reflected on the loss and reaffirmed his commitment to the club.
Osman, who returned from injury for this matchup, admitted that Panathinaikos took too long to adjust to their opponent’s fast-paced, NBA-style game.
"We did a great job towards the end, we fought back, but small details cost us. We had to approach the game differently from the start. We knew their basketball style, and while we weren’t bad, we weren’t good enough either," Osman told NOVASPORTS.
The Turkish forward acknowledged that Paris Basketball’s up-tempo approach took Panathinaikos by surprise, forcing them into a reactionary role.
"They played in an NBA-like way, with a lot of fast breaks and transition plays. That’s not something we’re used to. We expected their style, but we didn’t execute well from the start," Osman added.
Despite a strong fourth-quarter push, the Greens fell short, with Osman emphasizing that early-game energy and execution were lacking.
"We played two difficult games this week, and fatigue was there, but that’s no excuse. We needed to do the little things better," he said.
With crucial games against Monaco and Crvena Zvezda ahead, Osman remains optimistic. "The Monaco game is the biggest of the season for us. We live for these kinds of matches, and we’ll be ready," he affirmed.
When asked about his future, Osman was clear about his affection for Panathinaikos. "My focus is on this team. I love this place, I love this city. We’re working hard together, and while we’ll see what the future holds, I want to stay here," he declared.
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