Unhappy Schiller: on the feeling of winning trophies and waiting for the celebration / News

Martin Schiller won his first career title on Sunday night during his head coach career in Europe and made no secret of his joy after the King Mindaugas Cup final.

“It means a lot to me,” Schiller said after the win. – It is very strange that there were no fans, because now we won, we shook hands and everything, there was no emotion. I know that our club wins many titles and we were favorites, but winning was not easy, so I am very happy ”.

“Defense was a key factor in winning. In the end we relaxed a bit, Lietkabelis had fast men and they managed to reduce the deficit, but our leadership allowed us to maintain the advantage ”, added the strategist.

– For you, this was the first title in the men’s coaching career. How are you?
– This is my second trophy, I have also won the G League, but it is my first title in Europe. I’m very happy because we don’t have many chances to win the title, so it’s very rewarding.

– You have dominated today from the first minute. What caused it?
– We focused on defense and the men did a great job. And after a good job in defense, everything happens easier and in attack. I was very happy that the guys were focused on what we were talking about.

It is not easy in a situation like this, but preparing for the tournament was not easy. We didn’t have Luke, who is a key player, nor did other players have health issues, but we were still able to do a great job.

– Lauvergne became the MVP of the four finalists. How would you comment on his game?
– His influence was enormous yesterday, when it took us a lot to accumulate points. He is a very sincere person, so he integrates perfectly with the team. Everyone loves him because he is a great hardworking person.

Jojo can’t get enough of admitting mistakes or wondering if something isn’t clear. Putting it all together, we get a great basketball player and student. His influence this weekend was enormous.

– What was the negotiation process for the extension of the contract with Lauvergne?
– The process was easy because we were contacted by Jojo’s agent who said he wanted to stay here. So Paul (Motiejūnas) agreed with all the details and the process was pretty quick. I am very happy about that. I would also like to thank coach Arne Woltmann, who has established a great relationship with Jojo.

– How did you feel when Jankūnas handed you the title on the podium?
– A very special feeling. I know Paul has won more than one cup, but I haven’t, so it’s a special feeling. Like I said, not everyone has a chance to win so I’m very happy.

From Jankie, it was a nice gesture and the whole team supported me from the beginning, which is very important. Jankis, Marius (Grigonis), Milas (Artūras Milaknis), Walkup. Thomas is partly Lithuanian, so finding a common language with these guys was very important from the beginning.

– How did the four finalists help evaluate the players at important moments?
– Such matches show the characteristics of the players. I want to highlight Karolis Lukošiūnas because he did a great job. He was not in an important game in our rotation, but the situation forced him to give him a chance, as he does a great job in LKL training and games. I am very happy for his great performance.

– What do you expect from the celebration ceremony with the team?
– I have heard of the celebratory traditions and have seen them quite a bit. I don’t know what to expect, but I’m looking forward to it.

I hope to go back to the family because she couldn’t be here. My daughters and my wife watched the game and I will take a break with my loved ones.