The most important moment is now for PAOK, as the team faces a very difficult game, a high-demand mission, and a huge challenge. Qualification for the FIBA Europe Cup Finals for the second consecutive year is at stake in tomorrow’s game in Spain, and against the in-form UCAM Murcia, PAOK aims to take the second step and secure the desired result.
The team’s preparation continued today in Spain with a training session held at the Palacio de Deportes. The only and significant absence for PAOK is the injured Nikos Chougkaz. The team traveled to Spain with 13 players, all of whom are available to head coach Pantelis Boutskos.
Speaking about the second semi-final and the big clash against Murcia, the PAOK coach stated:
“We are facing one of the most in-form teams in Europe, playing excellent basketball, with outstanding coaching guidance. We must respond at a very high level to the demands of a very physical game. However, the toughest missions are for the best soldiers. We need to show great motivation and strong concentration in order to reach the final. There are always key factors that tip the balance toward victory—rebounding, ball movement without mistakes, and three-point shooting percentage will all play a crucial role in deciding the game and who advances to the final.”
PAOK captain Thodoris Zaras also spoke about the big game and his anticipation of competing in a European final:
“We are ready. We’ve already faced them once at our home court, so we know their strengths. They are a very good and tough team that becomes especially dangerous when they find their rhythm, particularly at home. I believe we are well prepared. This is not just another game—it’s a game that determines qualification for a European final. We are ready to give 100% for qualification. Of course, we will step onto the court to win. What matters most is reaching the final, so even advancing by one point would satisfy us. But we will go out there to win,” Zaras said, adding:
“Reaching the final would be a blessing, and winning the trophy even more so—especially for me as I approach the end of my career. However, our full focus is on tomorrow’s game.”
The referees for tomorrow’s game are Andris Aunkrogers (Latvia), Lorenzo Baldini (Italy), and Dariusz Zapolski (Poland).