Spahija: “We need to play better basketball to win this title”

“Ashdod deserves the credit for their amazing preparation they did for this game”, said coach Spahija who got ejected in the fourth quarter, being an underdog is the most comfortable position to be in. Rebound is easier said than done, the problem is when you miss open shots and you start to lose confidence. During the timeout I asked the players to shoot the ball with confidence and not take the time, I felt the pressure, and I would like to congratulate my players and my staff for getting the job done in the last 6-7 minutes”.

Coach Spahija also addressed his ejection: “I didn’t intend to get ejected, that’s what the refs did and I have no complaints. Now we need to be stronger mentally and prepare to the finals. I told my players that I’m proud of them and that we need to play better basketball to win this title. I cannot allow myself to not be in the decisive moments of the game and I have complaints to myself and not to the refs”.

Jake Cohen who scored 13 points against his ex-team said: “Ashdod deserves a lot of credit, they played excellent and we had to fight hard to get the win. As long as we find the way to win, we will get better, the rebound that John helped me with was a good possession and is also an example to how we need to rebound as a team”.

“I’m proud of my friends who knew how to do the right things and get back from being down by eight points” said John DiBartolomeo who finished the game with 18 points and MVP honors. “We increased our intensity and they took a step back, that’s what made the difference. It doesn’t matter who we will face in the finals, we’ll get together watch film and fix our mistakes. The most important thing is that we will be in the finals”.