MoraBanc Coach Calls for Reset After Heavy Home Loss to Valencia

MoraBanc Andorra coach Žan Tabak called for a team reset after one of the season's heaviest defeats at home to Valencia Basket in the Pavelló Toni Martí. The loss exposed defensive frailties and a lack of reaction, with the squad deviating from their game plan once physical fatigue set in.

Tabak stressed the need to rally the players, improve defensively, and regain basic plays, especially without injured point guard Xavier Castañeda. "The first thing I have to do is lift the team," he said, adding that the group remains united and has enough talent to meet its objectives. He expressed concern over fans leaving before the final quarter, urging everyone to stay together: "If not, I don't think we'll make it."

Players echoed the sentiment. Point guard Rafa Luz admitted the team hit rock bottom after failing on simple plays and lacking usual solidity. Stan Okoye noted they lost control when adversity hit, despite starting focused. Aaron Best called for a clean slate and unity.

The defeat provides a 20-day break before hosting Casademont Zaragoza on March 7—a key matchup against a direct rival one win ahead, now coached by former MoraBanc boss Joan Plaza. The pause covers the Copa del Rei and FIBA windows, with Tabak able to work with the full squad initially before international call-ups for Yves Pons, Rafa Luz, Aaron Best, Kostadinov, and Artem Pustovyi.

General manager Francesc Solana acknowledged the "huge slap" of the loss, where the team "went over itself and dropped their arms at times." He viewed the players' frustration as positive, citing past recoveries, and emphasised collective effort under Tabak's direction. "We have to stay united, with everyone giving their maximum," Solana said, while appealing to fans to keep believing despite some leaving at halftime.

The club continues seeking an experienced guard to replace Castañeda, with options discussed but none yet convincing. Solana hopes to finalise a differential signing in time for Zaragoza, though nothing is certain.

To rebuild bonds, MoraBanc held an open training session on Tuesday, drawing families and children for drills, autographs, and interaction. "It's a great chance for kids to connect with the players," Solana noted, describing it as a planned event to showcase team work.