PAOK head coach Pantelis Boutskos spoke after the end of the game against Peristeri Betsson:
“Congratulations to my players for the great effort and the victory. We played with intensity and energy and we beat a really good team. Peristeri has achieved big away wins in Bilbao, Zaragoza and Petkim. They have excellent chemistry and coaching guidance.
We did 50% of the job, while also acknowledging that C.J. Harris was absent, a player with great experience. We took the first step, but we have a very demanding schedule ahead of us and we must stay locked in on the next game.
I also want to congratulate the medical staff for the fact that Moore played today and also against Olympiacos, as well as Koniaris, who had a muscle spasm and, with the way the game developed, we had the opportunity to protect him.”

On the adjustments in PAOK’s approach and game plan:
“It was important for us to get the win because it had been a while since our last victory. We approached the game with the right intensity and, most importantly, the players felt free to be themselves — not afraid to make mistakes and ready to sacrifice their ego for the team.
I’m very happy with how they responded. We forced a good team like Peristeri into 19 turnovers, and we handled their pressure well.”

On managing the 24-point lead ahead of the second game:
“The players understand basketball very well. The game is so fast now, that a 10-point difference in two minutes means nothing. When you play with so many possessions, momentum can change with just one play. I’m sure we have great respect for Peristeri. This was just the first step.”

On how he personally handles such a demanding situation:
“I don’t allow myself to have emotions. I stay locked into the process.”

On his discussions with coach Andrea Trinchieri:
“It is a great honor to enjoy the trust and freedom given to me by coach Trinchieri. It is very productive for us to discuss things together.
The most encouraging aspect is that coach Trinchieri’s presence helps the PAOK organization with the structures it needs for the future. Investing in organization is the best thing the team can do with the knowledge that coach Trinchieri brings.
The compass shows that there will be effort and that PAOK, with the vision of the owner and a tireless administration, will travel to very attractive destinations.
But the clock shows everyday reality. We played a game today, and on Saturday we face an opponent who had a full week to prepare. The clock is very different from the compass.”