Why did Krunoslav Simon walk 30 minutes after winning the EuroLeague?

Krunoslav Simon walked 30 minutes to the team hotel because there was no beer in the locker room following their victory.

What nearly happened in the EuroLeague semifinal before the final?

In the semifinal, Anadolu Efes nearly lost the game after surrendering a 21-point lead before ultimately winning.

What was coach Ergin Ataman's message before the final game?

Coach Ergin Ataman told his players they were a better team than Barcelona and should go out and show it.

Home / Sports / EuroLeague Champ's Thirsty Walk Home

EuroLeague Champ's Thirsty Walk Home

6 May

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Summary

Simon walked 30 minutes to hotel after winning EuroLeague.
He was motivated by the lack of cold beer post-victory.
He feared losing the semifinal after a big lead evaporated.

In a peculiar post-championship moment, 2021 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague winner Krunoslav Simon chose a solitary 30-minute walk to the team hotel over locker room celebrations. The Anadolu Efes forward's unique motivation stemmed from the surprising lack of beer available after their historic win, a disappointment for the self-proclaimed beer enthusiast.

Simon's path to victory was not without its anxieties. He recalled the semifinal match where his team almost squandered a significant 21-point lead, admitting the team had mentally relaxed too early. This near-collapse underscored the immense pressure before ultimately facing FC Barcelona.

Head coach Ergin Ataman delivered a simple yet powerful pre-game message to his squad, emphasizing their superiority over Barcelona and urging them to display their individual talents. This straightforward approach proved effective, leading Istanbul's Anadolu Efes to secure their championship title.

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