BEN SIMMONS
On what was going through his mind at the end
I just have to make free throws. Growing up I’ve always had pressure in terms of being on the floor, I’ve always had my name called so it’s not new to me. I love that feeling, I love being able to step into the light and know that I have to make shots and make plays. It’s just one of those things where I have to make it to win the game. I think tonight, the guys really stepped up, we fought hard and everyone did their job.
On Korkmaz’ last shot
I trust everybody on the floor, I know what players are going to be open. As soon as I saw Furkan open, I think he was shocked he was open, but I trusted Furkan to make that shot. He’s one of my teammates and he works hard every day, he’s a great competitor and great player. I trust all my teammates to make shots when it comes down to it, I’m not surprised, I’m just happy that he had the opportunity.
On coming back from down 21
That second group, Raul (Neto) and James (Ennis III), were making huge plays. Everyone made plays coming in, and it just shows how deep we are as a team. I think everyone played a role tonight, and if it wasn’t for guys in that second team that came in, if it wasn’t for rebounds, if it wasn’t for a certain set of plays, we wouldn’t have had a chance. Everybody played a huge part.
On Raul Neto’s play
I think he had two steals, he hit a quick layup, he put it up there for Kyle (O’Quinn) to put back, he just made plays, and that’s what a team is about. It’s not about individual talent, it’s about guys making plays.
On Al Horford
We might not be the most glamorous team, but we play hard together. We play defense hard; we try to make the best plays; the right plays every time. We play together, we’re a good team so far, and I think we are only getting better.