"We also have to gradually add attacking and defensive concepts that will help us continue to grow, use these games as training as well and learn from winning. That message has not changed yet because we are still in that position, and asking them for one final effort to try to reach the break unbeaten. If they had told us that a month and a half ago, we would have celebrated it enormously," the Madrid-born coach added in his preview of the game at Movistar Estudiantes.
In this way, Cantero praised the work of his squad in a domestic competition where "everyone is feeling important" and different players have stepped up in different games. Even so, the Casademont coach said that what concerns him most is "relaxation" against a Madrid team that handles transitions well but struggles more in the half court: "I am concerned because it is a difficult venue that, by tradition, has not been particularly good for us, and that always has to be taken into account."
Sheppard will be available for the game in Madrid. Photo: FIBA
For the game in Madrid, the Casademont coach will be able to count on all his players, including Aisha Sheppard, who will return to the rotation after twisting her ankle in the team's last league game: "The sprain was less serious than it seemed, and she could have played more in the Landes game. As you know, basketball players have suffered this type of injury many times. Once that acute pain has passed, if there is no significant swelling, which is not the case, she can compete and train completely normally."
THE TIMING OF THE BREAK
After the game against Movistar, Casademont will reach the first international break, which could "interrupt" the Aragonese side's winning momentum. "We have to use it in the best possible way. In terms of results, it can hurt you because you are in that rhythm, but you always try to look at the positive side, which is to reset a little, clear your mind and come back with more desire after that short break, which is not actually that long," Cantero said.
The Casademont coach also spoke very positively about an impressive milestone achieved by his team: being the only unbeaten side in the entire EuroLeague. "Wow, it's incredible. We know it does not give us anything, but it is great, and if someone had told you a month and a half ago that you would reach the break in that position in Europe, you would have signed up immediately, with your eyes closed and with whatever pen they gave you," Cantero said of a European competition in which Casademont have already qualified for the next phase.
