Serbia, Kokoškov: “I want to lead the team in every competition”

Igor Kokoškov spoke to 24sedam.rs about his role with the Serbian NT, ahead of the window for the Qualifiers to EuroBasket 2022, that will see the team playing in Finland.

Here are his main quotes:

“It’s not the reputation that wins the games. We are a big name, we have our standards, but it is something for the media and fans. Serbia will be represented in Finland by the best players available, and I’m sure they will give everything they have. Circumstances are hard, but we are trying to stay positive and prepare for those two games.”

“When I took over the national team, my only condition was to lead the team in every competition. Nothing has changed. It is very important, I didn’t want to be selectively present. There are no more and less important competitions. There are always obstacles, but they can be overcome by goodwill and enthusiasm.”

“We have two weeks to prepare, logistics are changing, so are the laws in Europe, with flights being canceled… People from the Federation have complicated work to do to organize everything – players coming from Serbia, players coming from abroad, everyone needs to be in Finland… But we are full of enthusiasm to give extra energy so this project ends the best possible way.”

"It’s not like that. Because, for us, the bubble in Finland is a big competition. We do not talk about the next summer, about the OQT and Olympic Games. We are focused on the next game. There are a lot of uncertainties for the next year… Now we are focused on the window.”

“It is very important for me to have good associates in the club and the national team. People in coaching staffs are very active and helpful. I give the best I can to fulfill everything, it’s not easy but it is not impossible either. I’m a team player.”