PAOK head coach Pantelis Boutskos, after the game against Mykonos Betsson, stated:
“We are going through an intense period, where we have to deal with various situations, including injuries and fatigue. The self-sacrifice shown by both the players and everyone in the team to make players available has been incredible. We lost Chougkaz, who brought a great vibe, and Melvin, who really wanted to play today — something that shows the character of this team.
We are finding new ideas to further develop our game. We are happy with the 29 assists. They could have been even more, as we missed some open shots. Today’s game offers lessons for us, in terms of the areas we need to improve. We keep the win, because it was important to return home, come in with fire and belief, and get a victory we needed.
This is a period with crucial games ahead, and we must be the best version of ourselves. There are elements we need to keep and build on, and others that need improvement. That’s why we are here — to find solutions. A coach must try to help the players and the team perform at their best possible level. It’s a never-ending pursuit of perfection. Every drop of sweat on the court goes in that direction, and this is a period where a lot is at stake, so we want everyone to have that mindset.”
On the team’s different performance compared to the previous game in Peristeri and the lineup with two big men, Moore and Omoruyi:
“In Peristeri, we had an imbalanced offensive threat. We faced one setback after another — injuries, early fouls, and we missed many shots. We always focus on the next game. We want to play more purposefully and methodically, especially where we create advantages, so that our offense consistently produces quality options and open shots. The lineup with two big men gives us size, and they have very good chemistry. Moore’s versatile style of play also helps a lot in this setup.”
On the upcoming crucial games and the improved performances of players like Beverley and Omoruyi:
“We have players with specific characteristics. We need to adapt to experienced players who have a particular style. It’s a constant battle to improve chemistry and cooperation. The most encouraging part is the fantastic group of Greek players, who, despite limited playing time, show up every day with positive energy.”
On Antonis Koniaris and the condition of the injured Melvin:
“Antonis made a tremendous effort, together with the entire staff, to return. He’s a player we missed — he makes good decisions, can shoot, and plays defense. He is a valuable link in the chain, and we need his impact.
Melvin was like a beast in a cage — he wanted to play through pain. But we had to make certain decisions. Considering what lies ahead, we are trying to manage the situation, because we know the players are under heavy load and every upcoming game is important.”
On the statement by Murcia head coach Sito Alonso, who called PAOK a favorite to win the FIBA Europe Cup:
“Our focus is on the next game against Promitheas, which will be difficult. If a coach with the experience of Sito Alonso in European basketball says something like that — a coach of a team that is 13–1 in the competition and has the same number of wins as Valencia and Barcelona in the league — I can only take it as a compliment.
However, if it’s some kind of mind game, it feels a bit outdated for such a modern coach.”