Hapoel Jerusalem Coach Praises Newcomer Lojeski After EuroCup Win

Hapoel Jerusalem began their EuroCup campaign with a decisive 94-73 victory over Germany's Rostock. Following the win, coach Sasa Djordjevic expressed satisfaction with the team's performance but emphasized there is still room for improvement as they adapt to European play.

"It's a good win for us, but it's still early and we are not at our maximum yet," Djordjevic stated. "A win like this is very important for the team's confidence. We will need to improve our communication in the next game, but it's good to get such a win in the first game."

He acknowledged the team's control over the game but noted ongoing work on chemistry and game flow. Djordjevic highlighted defensive lapses in the first half, where Rostock players took easy shots, but praised the team's second-half adjustments. "It's important to win even when you're not playing a great game," he added.

Regarding new player Kenny Lojeski, Djordjevic commented, "He is a dominant player. It's fun to watch him, but he still needs to get used to European basketball. He has taken some steps, but he is the complete package. I'm happy we have him."

Player Jalen Smith noted the win as a positive step in a long journey, with eyes already on their upcoming game against Maccabi Tel Aviv. He acknowledged the absence of a teammate due to injury and his role in organizing the offense, emphasizing the team's collective strength. Lojeski echoed the sentiment, calling it an excellent win for a new team and expressing his commitment to bringing tough basketball and helping the team win.