MoraBanc Andorra Kicks Off Preseason with New Signings Under Tabak

MoraBanc Andorra has begun preseason training with a refreshed squad under coach Žan Tabak, emphasizing physical gains and survival in Liga Endesa as the core priority.

The collective sessions started Wednesday following medical check-ups, with the full roster not expected until next week. Four of the seven new signings took part on day one: experienced center Leon Radošević, ex-NBA forward Cam McGriff, Madrid-born pivot Owen Aquino, and aler-pivot Lazar Mutic. Young Andorran Luka Bottiroli, son of former BC Andorra player Flavio Bottiroli, and French guard Milan Barbitch—who is training short-term and could leave soon due to roster constraints—also joined. Aquino and Mutic worked on stationary bikes. Returning players included captain Rafa Luz, Aaron Best, Chumi Ortega, Kyle Kuric, and Artem Pustovyi.

James Akinjo is due Friday, Kassius Robertson arrives Thursday, and Wes Iwundu, already in Andorra, awaits his medical. Robertson received a boost, not being called up by Canada's squad under Gordon Herbert.

Tabak, who joined mid-season last year to replace Joan Plaza and clinched survival on the final day via a three-way tie that relegated Dreamland Gran Canària, called salvation "what gives us life" as the top goal. He pushed for ambition beyond mere survival, crediting the signings, planning, analysis—and luck. The coach needs time to evaluate the group before defining tactics. "One thing is what I want, another is reality," he said, stressing honesty. In jest, he mentioned requesting Facundo Campazzo but settling within possibilities, avoiding comment on whether the roster reflects top choices.

Physicality tops the agenda after last season's issues, though Tabak noted trade-offs in other areas. "We're more physical," he said, seeking "hungry" players with ambition to make names in ACB and Europe, delivering energy to bond with fans. He labeled the newcomers "bets" needing extra work to master ACB's unique demands, distinct from other European leagues.

Tabak praised his bond with ex-director Francesc Solana, now at Gran Canària, and new technical director Jordi Ardèvol's market expertise. This project is built to his specifications, unlike last year's inheritance.

Luz, back since 2022 and the longest-serving at 34, called integration complex with high-caliber arrivals but promising. Unfamiliar with Akinjo beforehand, he welcomes profiles eager to grow and compete, aiding his own development. Survival remains key after recent close calls, but he seeks more comfort, less end-of-season stress. Veterans will mentor over the coming six weeks on Spanish league nuances.

Tabak ended last season strongly and starts fresh with energy.