Laso: Comparing Mike James with Cam Payne would be very foolish

Anadolu Efes defeated Aliağa Petkimspor away in Week 6 of the Türkiye Sigorta Basketbol Süper Ligi. With this win, the team earned its fifth victory in six league games.

Head coach Pablo Laso spoke to beIN Sports after the match. Laso said the defense was not bad overall, but they gave up too many easy baskets to the opponent. He noted that they committed too many turnovers in the first half and reduced those mistakes in the second half. He added that Petkimspor is a team with aggressive defense and good shooters.

Laso also spoke about Cam Payne's adaptation to the team. He said Mike James is very important to the team and that the club reacted very quickly after his injury. Describing Payne as a different player and a good playmaker, Laso stressed that comparing the two players one-on-one would be very foolish. Likening this to comparing Osimhen and Torreira, Laso said Payne is a great addition to the team but that they need to get used to his tempo. Laso said Mike James is a purer point guard who can play in many positions. He added that the team also has other guards, including Strazel, Fatts (Russell), Jordan Loyd and PJ Dozier. Laso noted that they need time to use Payne the way they want in the early actions.