CSKA vs. Unicaja Malaga: 77-66 (+11)
Jonas Kazlauskas, CSKA head coach:
I am very glad to get this victory, to have 5 wins in 5 games. We did not play our best game but you should not underestimate Unicaja. We expected it to be tough – and we had tough game. We caught them in the third quarter and probably we were able to make our life easier. But we played against good opponent which plays in a strong league. It was obvious that they will fight until the end. I’d like to warn everyone from singing the dithyrambs. I read too often that CSKA is almost guaranteed to participate in the Final Four. Life knows a lot of examples when self-complacence leads to problems. We have a new team, we make a lot of mistakes, and we should work qualitative in every episode. And you will accept the praises after winning the titles.
Chus Mateo, Unicaja head coach:
The game was close and CSKA broke the game in the third quarter. We did not work good enough during that period, especially on defense. But CSKA is a level higher than us. I can’t say I am disappointed. We tried to get back into the game in the fourth quarter. I think CSKA will be a part of the Final Four this season. And Andrei Kirilenko is the player which makes the difference in comparison to other top-teams. He is doing everything: he had almost 40 ranking points, 9 rebounds, 6 steals, 3 blocked-shots, 7 fouls drawn. He is humble and modest, he is a real star.
