winner’s wreath nine times, and with five different clubs. Before proving victorious with the Turkish champions, Željko gained glory with Partizan, Joventut Badalona, Re- al Madrid and, most of all, Panathinaikos. He has always been a bigger star than his play- ers. From the good he created better, from talent he made stars, and from the best he made aces. That’s why in Istanbul they celebrat- ed for days ... They gave a priceless value to the first European crown for a Turkish club. - It was unforgettable. I feel good, I’m proud. There were a lot of obligations after the final, and according to tradition we cut a cake with club president Yildirim. We drove in an open-top bus through our part of the city, or rather we tried to pass through the mass of fans – says Obradović (57), recount- ing the indescribable moments that Fener- bahçe fans will remember forever.
Žoc’s recipe for success is known, but al- so an unsolvable enigma for all his colleagues. - You always trying to isolate yourself, for the players, when it comes to the fight for the trophy, to be in a regular routine like they are throughout the year. They should spend time in the way they enjoy, except when it’s time for training, meetings or preparations. I insisted that for the Final Four we have the same regime, with the same people who were with the team dur- ing the season, without specific advice, no matter how well-intentioned. We got ready for the final by locking ourselves away, my associates and I. There wasn’t a lot of time. We provided the most when it was need- ed and, along with winning this trophy, I’m also pleased with the way we won it – Ob- radović tells us. He has conquered Serbia, Spain, Ita- ly, Greece, multiple times, and Europe, and
now it is the turn of Turkey to experience his dominance. - There are always similarities and dif- ferences. I tried adapting to the environ- ment, but also, when it comes to basketball, to impose my ideas, although basketball is universal to all those who love it. I am glad that when I first picked up my phone after the final I saw messages from all over the world, both from America and from all the places where I’ve worked. That’s the great- est treasure – friends. Anyone who has ever seen Obradović – even while he“plays”in front of the bench and his charges give their all on the court – knows that he is never lacking in motivation. - I love the job I do. It’s not easy and there are difficult situations, but the most beautiful thing is to emerge from difficult situations even stronger, and for that to be your new motive. As long as it fulfils me and
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