Ponitka: “Radonic is a straightforward and honest person”

On the Uručenje podcast, Mateus Ponitka spoke about both Poland’s huge success at EuroBasket 2022 and his move to Panathinaikos.

The Polish forward made a special mention of Dejan Radonic while being asked to compare him to his former Zenit coach and former Greens manager Xavi Pascual.

“We had a good run in the Eurobasket and made history. We knew we would all get opportunities later because that’s the way things work. I had a few chances but Panathinaikos really wanted me to be part of this team. I spoke to my agent and Renzio Emilia because I signed a contract.

There was an agreement, so we had to respect it. We had to find a solution that makes everyone happy. We found them and Panathinaikos was determined to get me, so it just happened. It was very positive and I wanted to find a place to enjoy basketball again. I think Panathinaikos is the perfect place for me.”reported Ponitka first.

“First of all, he is an uncomplicated and honest person. Very honest. I think that’s a positive thing in a relationship if you want to be part of a situation. We understand that we are one of the youngest teams in the competition.”he said and went on to draw a comparison between Radonic and Pascual.

“Every coach has his philosophy. For coach Radonic, defense is the most important thing. You have to be active defensively, play hard, make contact. At the moment we have fewer sets in attack. Of course, Xavi had more chances. Defensive rules were also important to them.

All great coaches create structure and system through defense. The attack is about different readings. There are similarities and differences, but both are great technicians. There are no EuroLeague games. You have to be at a certain level to train in the EuroLeague.”

“We know we have talented players but some don’t have that much experience. We try to find the balance between the most experienced and the most inexperienced. I spoke to the coach about my role. At the moment it looks a little different due to the injuries. We all have to adapt, but I’m really optimistic about the future.” Ponitka Castle.