At the end of the third quarter, Dustin Sleva of Zalgiris and Bonzie Colson of the Turkish club rushed to the rebound after a missed three-pointer by Nando de Colo.
While trying to defend himself against his opponent, the American from “Žalgiris” pushed him into the stands and earned a foul. Soon B. Colson stormed up and began aggressively approaching D. Sleva.
A potential conflict was saved by the quick reaction of Fenerbahce defender Devon Hall – he immediately pushed his teammate away from D. Sleva, and soon the passions were controlled.
“The playoffs, a lot of emotions. Maybe it was a bit too physical when we already had four fouls. Sometimes it happens. You know, it just happens. The streak is long, I hope we’ll extend it. There will be ups and downs – nothing unusual,” said D. Sleva at first about this episode.
However, when asked about this moment, the American said that it was simply a normal game situation, not hiding anything else and not indicating possible irritation due to the unfavorable course of the match.
“I don’t think there was anything to be upset about. The ball was in the air, I defended him (B. Colson – ed.)
Then why did Bonzie Colson react so fiercely? D. Sleva was looking for an answer to this question himself.
“Maybe he thought there was something wrong. I don’t think I did anything wrong in that situation,” the Zalgirian repeated his thoughts. “It was stupid penalty because we were already there bonus (had four team fouls – ed.).
I tried to grab the ball on offense because it bounced far. I took a position to take the ball.”
– How did you manage to fall asleep after such a match?
– It’s always hard to sleep after a match – you’re constantly thinking about every attack. When you watch the match, it’s easier, you try to sleep after all the adrenaline and caffeine. The season is long, the series is long. The aim is to grab one game, we will have another chance to do that tomorrow.
– What did you learn from your debut in the Euroleague playoffs?
– I quickly collected fouls. I’ve been in playoff situations, I’m building on that experience. This is my first EuroLeague experience, based on the experience of those who have already been here, such as Nigel. I talk to them, I know there will be good moments and there will be bad. I learn from that experience and try to improve.
– Yesterday was all about physicality. What can you say about him?
“Feneris” is like that. I played against them last year – they were the same. This is needed at the highest level. I think we can be that team, we have to be the first to do it.
– Have you seen cats in the locker room yet?
– Cats are everywhere here. I lived here last year, it’s full of cats and dogs. Good thing they are all friendly.
– Last year you played for another team in Turkey. Do you feel any hostility from Fenerbahce fans?
– If I could speak and read Turkish, then maybe. I don’t pay attention to it. All the fans in Istanbul are very passionate, it’s fun to play there, they give a different energy. It’s fun.
– Is the atmosphere similar to the one in the final of the Turkish League?
– Very similar. Of course, the Euroleague playoffs are a different environment. Last year was significantly more underrated, but the atmosphere is similar.
