Spain moved into the semi finals after a hard fought win over Finland, a result celebrated by the coaching staff as a clear sign of progress. The victory highlighted the depth and resilience of a squad that keeps punching above its weight when facing the tournament’s toughest opponents. In the hour after the final whistle, the team acknowledged the work that got them to the last four, emphasizing leadership, collective defense, and precise ball movement in a tense, high stakes matchup.
The press conference shed light on the moments that changed the game. The team captain, Rudy Fernández, spoke with a calm intensity that resonated with everyone on the floor. He reminded teammates that staying calm, trusting the process, and maintaining a disciplined tempo can turn a rough start into a controlled, fluid finish. Fernández’s experience helped steer the group through early nerves and set the tone for a stronger second half, where better ball circulation and assertive defense generated the energy needed to close the game.
Sergio Scariolo, reflecting on the second half, credited Fernández not only for leadership but for the emotional lift that sparked a more disciplined offense. He noted the importance of directing that energy into purposeful plays and keeping turnovers low, especially during critical stretches. The coach stressed that the team needed more cohesion and mutual trust, recognizing that victory required smarter decisions and shared responsibility on every possession.
During the introspective hour after the break, Scariolo explained how the team worked to improve. He described a deliberate shift toward faster ball movement and a more patient half court approach, which opened up better options and reduced hesitation. The squad answered with 17 assists in the second half, underscoring a focus on teamwork and unselfish play. The adjustments were gradual, but the players bought into the plan, convinced that a comeback could become a reality if they stayed focused and executed.
Willy Hernangómez, a central figure in the comeback thanks to a standout performance, admitted that the opening minutes did not reflect the team’s ambitions. He acknowledged a rocky start but stressed that the squad’s resilience and Fernández’s leadership were decisive in turning the game around. Hernangómez praised Fernández for his relentless effort and his ability to “run the show” for the group, highlighting how this leadership contributed to a renewed sense of purpose on both ends of the floor. The center also expressed gratitude for the chance to keep advancing, reaffirming the team’s commitment to further improvement as they approached the knockout rounds.
The leadership group reiterated a simple, powerful message: the goal is to maximize potential in every game. They recognized that while the victory over Finland was a meaningful milestone, there was still work to do to sustain momentum and achieve deeper progression in the tournament. The players and staff affirmed their ambition to remain among the four best teams and to prepare thoroughly for the semi finals. The emphasis stayed on blending experience with youthful energy, maintaining a strong defensive posture, and implementing a versatile offensive plan that could adapt to different opponents and game situations.
This performance, set against the season’s broader arc, demonstrates how the team can balance intense competition with disciplined execution. The leadership core, anchored by an experienced captain, continues to model the behaviors that push the unit forward: accountability, trust, and a steadfast commitment to collective success. The coaching staff remains focused on refining the system, optimizing matchups, and building the mental toughness that champions rely on when the pressure heightens. In the end, the victory against Finland stands as proof of the squad’s growth and a stepping stone toward greater challenges ahead. [citation: official team remarks and postgame interviews]