Žan Tabak Debuts as MoraBanc Andorra Coach vs Gran Canaria

Žan Tabak takes charge of MoraBanc Andorra for the first time on Saturday evening at 19:00 in the Pavelló Toni Martí, hosting Dreamland Gran Canaria in a key Liga ACB matchup as both teams battle poor form.

The Croatian coach, who arrived amid seven straight defeats for the Tricolors, has focused his brief preparation on lifting the squad's "low and defeated" spirits and sharpening its defense. Speaking at training on Friday and a press conference earlier, Tabak stressed maintaining the core system while executing it better. "We have no time for major tactical shifts," he said, emphasizing improvements like greater ball pressure, tougher screens, and stronger individual accountability. He aims to streamline processes so players focus on execution rather than hesitation, ensuring consistency over all 40 minutes after lapses that cost recent games.

Tabak acknowledged the typical post-coach-change boost in morale, noting he personalizes support through one-on-one talks to find common ground with players. Despite past "winnable" home games against teams like Lleida and Breogán slipping away, he views Gran Canaria—a side with three consecutive losses and only six wins this season—as a chance to halt the skid and ease survival pressures.

The club continues scouting a versatile ball-handler capable of playing point guard or shooting guard, similar to Xavier Castañeda. General manager Francesc Solana revealed a near-deal that fell through at the last moment.

Echoing predecessor Joan Plaza, Tabak called on fans for patience: "Stay with us—this isn't a sprint, it's a marathon to season's end, and we need to row together." He added that steady progress, greater solidity, and seizing opportunities will secure permanence in the league, urging everyone to push in the same direction. Joking about his reception, he quipped that he hopes for cheers since "I haven't done anything wrong yet," but affirmed his professionalism regardless.