Dewa United Banten coach Pablo Favarel said his team will anticipate a number of key players who will strengthen Hangtuah Jakarta, in the first match of the 2025 Indonesian Basketball League (IBL) playoffs at the Ciracas Sports Hall.
According to him, several players such as Shabazz Muhammad and Rakeem Christmas will trouble Anak Dewa in their efforts to achieve victory.
"We will try to stop Rakeem who is dominant in the paint area," said Favarel in Tangerang, Wednesday.
He explained that Kaleb Ramot Gemilang and his friends must be able to show their best abilities when playing in the knockout phase.
He further explained that improving technical quality, physical and mental endurance must be prepared carefully.
Because, the intensity of the game in the playoffs is different from the regular season.
"We have to stop the opponent from scoring points at every opportunity in the game," said the Argentine coach.
Dewa United Banten will be hosted by Hangtuah Jakarta in the first game of the playoffs with a best of three format .
After that, they will host their opponents at the Dewa United Arena, Saturday (5/7), to play the second game.
Meanwhile, the third or deciding game will still be held at Anak Dewa's headquarters, if both teams have a 1-1 meeting record in the previous two games.
