PAOK head coach Andrea Trinchieri has called for passionate home support ahead of his team's EuroCup opener against Spanish side Manresa in Thessaloniki on 29 September.
The Italian tactician emphasized that the Greek club must execute a complete mental reset following a grueling weekend schedule in Athens, where PAOK faced top EuroLeague opposition.
Speaking during an appearance on the broadcast program The Basketball Show by Allwyn, Trinchieri expressed high excitement for the fixture, which marks the start of a new era for PAOK in European competition. He pointed out that the squad had not yet experienced the energy of their home fans this season because all of their previous matches had been played away from home.
Tactical adjustments and squad fitness
Trinchieri offered a comprehensive breakdown of the tactical challenge presented by Manresa, describing the Spanish club as an exceptionally clever team. He noted that Manresa excels at floor spacing, perimeter shooting, and tricking defensive systems, adding that the matchup will require absolute focus on minor details because small actions determine major outcomes on the court.
The head coach also provided crucial updates regarding player availability, confirming that forward Nikos Hougkaz will miss the contest and leave the lineup shorter in stature. Trinchieri highlighted that having guard Gray available would be vital for PAOK's system, expressing optimism that the player will be ready to feature against the Spanish side.
Mental approach to must win pressure
Addressing questions regarding pressure and whether the upcoming encounter constitutes a must-win game, Trinchieri stated that while players can maintain a must-win mentality, defeats are an inevitable part of any competition. He explained that embracing a must-win mindset does not guarantee a victory, but rather guarantees maximum effort, focus, and hard physical play.
Trinchieri underscored that his core responsibility is ensuring players execute fundamental tasks correctly to secure positive results. He insisted that PAOK must bring the exact same energy and passion against Manresa as they demonstrated during their recent demanding fixtures against Greek EuroLeague powerhouses Panathinaikos and Olympiacos.
Home crowd return and transfer speculation
Reflecting on the emotional significance of leading PAOK in front of a full arena for the first time, Trinchieri admitted that he would feel butterflies in his stomach, declaring that he lives for such moments. The veteran Italian added that while he has been fortunate to win titles during his career, silver trophies eventually gather dust, whereas personal memories remain forever and serve as his primary fuel.
Trinchieri firmly pushed aside speculation concerning prospective squad additions, specifically addressing rumors linking PAOK with Lithuanian big man Donatas Motiejunas. The coach declined to discuss transfer reports, asserting that his sole focus remains on performing his managerial duties and delivering his best effort for the team on matchday.
EuroCup title race and regional results
Asked whether PAOK should be viewed as favorites to win the EuroCup, Trinchieri dismissed the premise as tricky, pointing out that multiple elite clubs harbor ambitions of lifting the trophy. He explicitly cited Thessaloniki rivals Aris BC, Turkish team Bahcesehir, and Israeli outfit Hapoel Jerusalem as serious contenders, adding that he is happy to share title responsibility while promising only that PAOK will fight in every game.
The sports desk also reported broader European basketball and regional sports news. Thessaloniki rivals Aris BC, coached by Vassilis Spanoulis, opened their EuroCup campaign with an 87-74 victory over French side Le Mans. In EuroLeague action, Olympiacos secured a thrilling 93-91 victory at Zalgiris Kaunas behind MVP Evan Fournier, with head coach Georgios Bartzokas praising his team's patience in Kaunas. Anadolu Efes defeated Real Madrid 94-84 in front of former coach Ergin Ataman, Dubai BC beat Barcelona 94-87, and Greek international defender Georgios Vagiannidis was ruled out of upcoming national team matches against the Netherlands and Germany. Additionally, Panionios announced it will donate proceeds from its match against PAOK B to support injured player Kostas Limas and his family.
