Partizan's basketball team secured a thrilling victory over Red Star in the first game of their playoff series. Among the heroes of the triumph was American player Dvejn Washington, who demonstrated composure in pivotal moments and expressed joy at the team's progress towards the title.

In an interview with the club's television immediately following the game, Washington emphasized that in playoffs, the final outcome is more important than the aesthetics of play.

- Yes, playoffs are always crazy. Whatever it takes to win, you need to find a way to do it, and that's what we did tonight. I'm proud of the guys. We need to get into a better position, but as I've said, a win is a win. I'm proud of the team – Washington began.

Given that the series is played to two wins, the first victory carries significant weight.

- That first game is extremely, extremely important, especially in a series to two wins. It takes some pressure off you in a way. But, you know, we want to go for that next one. We'll rest and be ready for the next challenge.

The final moments of the game were dominated by the tandem of Washington and Karlik Jones, who broke through Red Star's defense in the last 90 seconds.

- We just stayed with our game and had to keep shooting. At one point, we were struggling, there were many missed shots, but we managed to find our way to the basket. A couple of "2+1" situations at the end and we brought the game to a close as it should.

Washington also dedicated a special part of his speech to Nik Kalates. Though Kalates scored only one point in the game, his impact on play and leadership was, according to Washington, invaluable.

- Man, he... I really like Nik. He is one of the best teammates I've ever had and I've learned so much from him this year. I've built a relationship with him off the court, but as a player... all the respect to him. He's a special character. He's our "Black Eagle." He's done a hell of a job and I'm proud of him – Washington said excitedly.

When asked if Kalates had been the catalyst for the team's momentum in the third quarter, Washington confirmed:

- Absolutely. He does those little things. He's a fighter, he's a "dog." He leads us. He's a veteran, 18 years in this league, in Euroleague, and in Europe. Whatever we can learn from his leadership, we'll do it and keep winning.

The Washington father and son were singing Partizan's chants after the game.

(Telegraf.rs)