EWE Baskets’ Rocky Start: Averting Blowouts and Path Forward in BBL
EWE Baskets Oldenburg’s start to the 2021-2022 easyCredit BBL season has been far from ideal. With four consecutive losses, the team has struggled to find consistency. Head coach Predrag Krunić addressed the fans, reasons behind the losses, and the team’s path forward in a candid interview.
From Blowout to Comeback: Fans’ Whistle Protest Ignites Team’s Spirit
After a dismal first half against Science City Jena, leaving them 27 points behind and facing a chorus of disgruntled fans, Krunić had some harsh words for his team. “Our fans were angry, and they had every right to be. We played very poorly, without the fight and spirit expected from EWE Baskets players.” However, the coach lauded the fans’ support post-halftime, credit for which he gave to the team’s improved performance: “We showed a reaction, a different mentality, and that was important.”
Analyzing the Reasons Behind EWE Baskets’ Disappointing Start
Despite the glimmers of hope in individual games, EWE Baskets’ inconsistency has been a bane. Krunić emphasized the need for a full 40-minute game: “We had phases where we played well, but the lack of continuity cost us games. We’re working on increasing this consistency.”
- Team Game and Decision-Making Under Pressure: Krunić pointed out that hurried decisions under pressure have led to several lost balls and ultimately, victories. He stressed the importance of collective play, stating, “Against Bonn, the lack of team play was evident. We had to play catch-up and rushed our decisions.”
- Rebounding and Defense Against Pick & Roll: Inadequate rebounding and defense against pick & roll strategies have proven to be weak spots for EWE Baskets. Krunić acknowledged these issues and reiterated the need for physical and consistent play: “We can’t allow easy points against a physical team like Würzburg.”
EWE Baskets vs. Würzburg: A Must-Win Game?
With a tough match against Würzburg on the horizon, Krunić knows the team must step up. “We have to give the answer to our situation. It’s a very strong opponent, but we have to come out with physicality, mentality, and fight. Only then can we compete with Würzburg.”
Out of respect for our fans and our own work, we have to deliver. This is the difference between success and failure, and I think we understand that!
The Road to Recovery: Believing in a Turnaround
Krunić believes in his team and the Oldenburger fans. He finds solace in the arena’s atmosphere and the fans’ support. “This is the attitude and the intensity that will help us turn the season around.”
EWE Baskets’ next game against Würzburg will be a litmus test for their resilience and determination to overcome their slow start. Despite the challenges, Krunić’s unwavering belief and the fans’ support will be driving forces behind the team’s pursuit of victory.
FAQs
- Q: What are the reasons behind EWE Baskets’ poor start?
A: Inconsistency, hurried decisions under pressure, and struggling in rebounding and defending against pick & roll strategies have contributed to EWE Baskets’ 0-4 start.
- Q: What can EWE Baskets do to turn their season around?
A: The team needs to focus on 40-minute consistency, improve their team game and decision-making, and maintain physicality on both ends of the court.