Pöltl is preparing for a new CoV break
The coronavirus pandemic has already shaken up the schedule of the new season of the National Basketball Association (NBA). Despite a strict security concept, 15 games had to be canceled in the first four weeks. Jakob Pöltl is therefore preparing for another complete game stop. His great hope for a "normal" operation is widespread vaccination.
"If there are
too many diseases in society, or if it no longer makes sense in terms of sport, you definitely have to
consider what the alternatives are," Pöltl is quoted in the APA. All teams are affected to a similar extent by failures and postponements, but the Viennese already locates a certain “
compe ive distortion”.
Due to infections and close contacts, several clubs recently did not have the required eight ready-to-use players. In addition, the league has already tightened the hygiene measures. "We only spend the time in the hotel or in the hall, otherwise there is a curfew," said Pöltl before a guest appearance of his San Antonio Spurs at the Golden State Warriors. "We are in
self-isolation, there are
stricter mask requirements." The protection may only be removed for eating, in your own rooms and on the playing field.
The preparation for the games is therefore monotonous and not ideal, but what must be, must be, according to the Viennese. "Of course I can imagine better conditions, but I can live with them," said Pöltl about the ongoing match. "As long as it is not dangerous or too distorting of compe ion, I have no problem with it." The NBA professional also has
hopes for a nationwide vaccination: "Hopefully it will come soon and increasingly for everyone."
Pöltl relies on constant growth
In terms of sport, Pöltl was
finally on the upswing at the beginning of January
after what it said was
a "hangover". In the last two games, the 25-year-old scored double digits and received great praise for his defensive performance. “
These are normal ups and downs,” said Pöltl, who after his three-year extension at the Spurs will initially have to line up behind center veteran LaMarcus Aldridge. However, the 35-year-old's contract expires at the end of the season.
Pöltl emphasized that he
had no problem with his playing minutes, so far just under 20 per game. "If I consistently perform, play defense and play my role offensively, the minutes will go up over time."
He wants to keep expanding his role. But primarily it is about winning games. And that's what the Spurs are doing so far. With eight wins from 14 games, the Texans are on a play-off spot that many would not have thought they would have expected at the start of the season.
“I don't want to interpret too much. We played good basketball against a couple of strong opponents, you can build on that, but we haven't achieved anything yet, ”said Pöltl. The way to the desired goal of the knockout round, which was missed for the first time last season after 22 years of continuous participation, is still a long way. "
We still have to give a lot more gas if we want to be in the play-offs at the end of the season."