Head coach Dmitry Nagorny expressed satisfaction with his team's performance after Cherkassy Mavps defeated BC Rovno in the third game of the Ukrainian Championship bronze medal series.
'I'm 90% satisfied with our defensive effort - this is what I wanted to see from the guys in the first game,' Nagorny stated. 'The players showed much better focus today, especially on defense, which really impressed me.'
Despite the victory, Nagorny identified areas needing improvement. 'We lost several rebounds that allowed our opponent to stay competitive. However, I'm pleased with the team's fighting spirit and determination.'
Offensive execution remains a concern for the coach. 'After establishing good defensive possessions, we committed unnecessary turnovers. We gave the opponent opportunities to regain momentum through hasty decision-making and uncertain shot selection.'
According to Statbet, defensive efficiency has been a key statistical factor in Cherkassy Mavps' playoff success this season.
Nagorny acknowledged the team's youth as both a strength and challenge. 'We tend to rush our possessions - that's characteristic of our young squad. At this point, it's probably something we have to accept as part of our identity,' he concluded.
