PUR – “One on one” with Ricardo Sanchez

After the blow which meant yestarday lose against Mexico, this against Panama was fundamental to Puerto Rico. Their 41-points difference margin victory (108-67), probe that fact, cooling down the pression over the team at the same time.

This is a good step after yesterday’s fiasco, isn’t it?

Yes, of course. Yesterday was a long day for us. Today, we get to play better, actively, more of our Puerto Rican basketball.

What was the problem yesterday?

We didn’t come to play. We were surprised, got beat on the boards, making lots of turn-overs, not coming back on defense after scoring…today, we tuned up the defense and, playing team basketball, we were able to win.

What did you talked about before the game?

We talked about playing with intensity, trying to impose our game system; giving special attention to our half-court offensive game.

What was the impact of not having Barea on the sidelines?

It was harsh, to be honest, but we need to keep moving forward. We can’t cry over this.

You didn’t have a good Tuto Marchand Cup, and recently dealt with Daniel Santiago’s retirement from the national team; lots of blows before a tournament of this importance.

We’ve been through a lot. The good thing is that we’ve been able to stay together, in spite of everything, and we’ll keep moving forward.

Tomorrow’s game against Argentina could be very important?

It’s war. Everytime we played against them, we do it very hard. It’ll be a battle.

What is your main objective for this tournament?

To qualify. We have to do it, and we’ll try our best. We want to reach the Olympics. That is our main challenge. Personally, it’s a goal. To be able to live through that experience with only 20 years old, would be sucha a fantastic experience, and I’d love to go through it.

Fabian Garcia
FIBA Americas