Westermann and Walkup discuss Maccabi challenge 0

Tuesday evening saw Zalgiris first practice in Tel Aviv, where the green-and-white were preparing for a vital match-up against Maccabi. The Israeli side, has their noses ahead in the standings with one extra victory, despite losing to Zalgiris in the first match-up.

Zalgiris TV joined up with Leo Westermann and Thomas Walkup before the game and talked about the upcoming challenge. Walkup highlighted the shooting threat of Maccabi’s Scottie Wilbekin.

“Obviously he is a really good shooter and everything for him opens up a after that. We’ve got to do a good job cutting off his strengths and getting to certain spots on the floor he likes getting to. Not just one person, but as five guys.”

Back in December, Zalgiris managed to claim a victory over the Israeli side at home, taking an 80-73 win. According to Leo Westermann, it all came down to physicality and hustle.

“We played physical basketball. We won all the 50-50 balls, which is very important against a team like Maccabi. They’re a strong, tough team to play against, but I think physically we played a very good game.”

Before leaving to Tel Aviv, Sarunas Jasikevicius pointed out the ability to switch on defence due to their height and length as one of the Maccabi’s main strengths.

Thomas Walkup added that playing against a defense like that, it’s important to keep on passing the ball.

“I think it’s important to not get stagnant, keep the ball moving, keep driving. Spirits are high and we’re ready to work.”

Westermann does not expect an easy night in Tel Aviv, but would not count out Zalgiris from reaching the Top 8.

“It’s not going to be easy. They’re very tall, very aggressive, they can switch on the pick and roll. It’s not going to be easy of course.  In these kind of games it’s always important to win the physical battle. We’re still in the Play-Off race and we came here to win.”