PAOK head coach Pantelis Boutskos stated after the game against Peristeri Betsson:
“Congratulations to Peristeri, they are a strong opponent. Congratulations as well to our players for their brave effort. We were hit hard by injuries, we already had absences, and more issues came up during the game, so we had to manage many different situations.
I have no complaints about the players. They fought and gave everything they had. We had many open shots, but unfortunately we couldn’t convert them.
It was a very demanding game, where there was a significant difference in rebounds. Moore got into foul trouble very early, Melvin was injured, and with the absences we already had, it was clear we were at a disadvantage.
I feel that Peristeri’s defense was on the edge of fouling. We had EuroLeague-level referees, but we need to review certain situations on video, especially when the game was being decided. We have to look ahead—we have a very demanding schedule and need to manage the injuries.
It is important now, with consecutive home games coming up, for our fans to give us energy and support so that our team can keep fighting every three days.”
Responding to questions, the PAOK coach added:
On the injury problems:
“We were without Koniaris, Chougkaz, without Moore early in the first half due to quick fouls, without Melvin and Dimsa at crucial moments. We need to have a serious meeting with the medical staff on how to manage all these issues.”
On the final possession given to Peristeri:
“To the naked eye, it looked like a foul on Moore. I trust the referees, but the feeling from the players is that they feel unfairly treated for their effort.”
On what needs to be done ahead of the next game against Mykonos:
“That the team stays healthy. We need to manage absences and injuries for another very demanding game. In every league game, a big effort is required to achieve victory.”