Atanasov: Building a fast, combative MZT Skopje team

MZT Skopje Aerodrom, the reigning domestic champion, has been in active preparation for the new season for several weeks, with coach Vasko Atanasov describing the squad as compact and determined ahead of the official calendar.

Camp work, a high-scoring friendly and a clear tactical idea

Atanasov said the club used the recent training camp to sharpen both tactical details and physical condition, and that the staff is satisfied with how the players responded.

"I think we have created a very compact, versatile and combative roster that will surely play the kind of basketball MZT Skopje should play. We made changes, we have new faces in the team and I believe that we will create a unit that will, as best as possible, respond to each of the challenges that lie ahead of us. In the time behind us, we have seen how this team can play and how much it can progress. That is actually something that particularly pleases me and I believe it will be a real pleasure to watch during the season," Atanasov said, adding.

"We used the training camp in Negorski Banj to improve the technical-tactical aspect, as well as to raise physical form before the period in which we will play the preparatory matches that will show us our strengths and weaknesses. The players worked very hard and of course I am satisfied with the work on the court," the coach of the current champions added. The coach also referred to the first friendly against Kozhuv, in which MZT Skopje Aerodrom scored 111 points.

"The match against Kozhuv showed some features of how, as a coaching staff, we envision this team to play. Certainly, with a roster full of potent offensive players, the fast game and attack will be something we insist on. We will continue to work and improve what we already have," he said, outlining the team's stylistic priorities.

Atanasov did not hide the club's ambitions.

"My expectations with MZT are always the same – to go after every trophy and win every game! The most important thing to me is that in every match we give our maximum, fight to the end and do not leave the fans disappointed. I am sure that such an approach will bring us to the desired goal," the blue-and-whites' strategist pointed out.

MZT's next test during the preparation phase is scheduled against GKK Shtip on Wednesday (9 September 2026), timed with the opening of the Jackson sports centre in that town.

Photo: press material from the event