Pablo Laso is entering his first full preseason with Anadolu Efes after taking charge midway through last season, giving him more time to build the team around his ideas.
After struggling with injuries and creation last season, Efes added Matthew Strazel, Fats Russell and Mike James to strengthen its backcourt.
“Despite injuries, which was a big factor for us last year, there was something that we really wanted to improve: we wanted to improve our creation.
“That’s why bringing Matthew Strazel, Fats Russell, and Mike James was very important for us. I think we’re gonna have a line of great creators that even can play together.”
James is expected to become a central figure following Shane Larkin’s departure, but Laso does not want Efes to depend entirely on one star.
“And as a coach, I know that all the teams will try to stop Mike James. It won’t be easy because a lot of times Mike James can only be stopped by Mike James.
“But at the same time, I don’t want everybody to recognize Efes just as Mike James’ team. That would put stupid pressure on Mike and he doesn’t deserve that. Mike is here and he will be a very important piece, but we are Efes.”
Efes also added Dario Saric and Bruno Fernando, while Larkin moved to rival Fenerbahce. Laso acknowledged Larkin’s importance but stressed that the club must move forward.
“There is no more Shane Larkin in Efes with all the respect. Right now we have to look up front and try to build a team without Shane. We have to think of being the best Efes possible this year without Shane Larkin.”
For Laso, the ultimate objective is restoring Efes’ identity after a disappointing season.
“Something we lost a little bit last year we have to recover this year: our identity. We are Efes, we are ready, and we are excited to have a great season.”
