Zalgiris Kaunas extended their EuroLeague playoff series against Fenerbahce Istanbul on Wednesday night with an 81-78 victory. After the game, Azuolas Tubelis, who delivered a career-best performance with a 31 PIR, shared his thoughts. Game 4 of the series will take place this Friday.
“I don’t know, it’s been the same start in all three games. They pull away early, but we defended quite well and only made small mistakes. Sometimes we helped when we shouldn’t have, which gave up open three-pointers and allowed them to build a lead. Once they start hitting open shots, they begin making tougher ones too. Offensively, we stayed patient and got good looks, even if they didn’t fall at first, but we kept our energy. We ran, because we had nothing to lose — we played like it was our last game,” said Tubelis.
Tubelis also spoke about overcoming a double-digit deficit.
“Yes, there were minor tactical adjustments during the game from both sides. I think things worked quite well, but physicality was the key. Against a team like this, you have to play physically for all 40 minutes — otherwise they will punish you, and they did that a few times,” the big man explained.
Zalgiris will face Fenerbahce in Game 4 of the series this Friday at 8:00 PM.
