Joan Plaza: MoraBanc trending upward but must build consistency

Joan Plaza says MoraBanc is on an upward curve and looks more recognisable than at the start of the season. The team returns to training today despite the ACB break until the 7th, and Plaza sees the current FIBA window—coinciding with the first third of the competition—as a good moment to take stock.

"The team has an upward trend, it is more recognisable and is able to find itself offensively," the coach said, adding that in recent games the side has kept opponents below scoring averages: "Today they scored 83 on us, when the ACB average is 84, and in these four games we have held rivals under that level."

Despite those positives after a poor start, Plaza warned the improvement is not yet sufficient. He pointed out that when the team eases off even a little, opponents can pull away by 10 or 12 points, so the group must continue working on consistency.

Plaza placed particular emphasis on defence and habits. Using a simple example, he said that when players go to the park to practise they tend to shoot threes rather than defend, because defending is not as instinctive; the coaching staff is gradually instilling that habit and he is pleased with the progress.

He also praised the players for not abandoning games or repeating the image from the first two matches when the team capitulated quickly. Asked where he will concentrate during the next two weeks—despite being short of personnel because several internationals are away—Plaza highlighted ball security: in the opening fixtures the team lost an unusually high number of turnovers, but that has improved and they will keep working on that and the other areas of progress with the players who remain.

Six MoraBanc players will join their national teams during the break.