Dusan Alimpijevic: “This is only one win” after Besiktas’ Game 1 EuroCup victory

Coach keeps things short and focused

Besiktas opened the EuroCup semifinal series with a home victory over Bahcesehir, but head coach Dusan Alimpijevic refused to get carried away. After a slow start, his team dominated the second half to take a 1-0 lead in the best-of-three matchup, yet Alimpijevic stressed that the job isn’t finished.

He was blunt and brief with the media, saying this is just one win and that the staff will immediately start breaking the game down and preparing for the next challenge. Alimpijevic pointed out that Bahcesehir surprised them with physicality early on, but from the second quarter Besiktas adjusted and played how they should have from the tip.

Contributions, injuries and what’s next

Point guard Devon Dotson led the way with 16 points and plenty of energy on both ends. Alimpijevic praised Dotson’s aggression and pace and highlighted the value of having two guards who can pressure the ball and control tempo. He also noted that responsibility was shared across the roster — several players stepped up when needed.

On the injury front, the coach said Vitto Brown will be available for Game 2. If Morgan isn’t fit, Brown can fill in, so the squad feels equipped to compete in the rematch. Alimpijevic also laughed about keeping his usual halftime routine and mentioned how much the team’s profile has grown — press conferences are livelier than when he first arrived.

Besiktas travel to Bahcesehir for Game 2 on April 3. The first team to reach two wins will advance to the EuroCup final; meanwhile the other semifinal features Turk Telekom against Bourg.