“The Federation and Referees Overlooked the Incidents”
Both teams approached the Greek finals with the goal of salvaging their season. Earlier this year, we secured the Greek Cup by defeating Olympiacos, who entered the finals without any victories and were down 1–0. However, during our visit to Piraeus for Game 2, distressing events unfolded. Just thirty minutes before the match, shocking chants and insults targeted our president’s family and daughter—an obvious attempt to provoke Mr. Giannakopoulos. The referees should have intervened, yet the federation and officials chose to ignore it.
This was an intense showdown between Panathinaikos and Olympiacos, prompting the Greek government to suspend the finals and urge both clubs to negotiate a resolution. They indicated that failure to reach an agreement would lead to the cancellation of the finals. Our club was willing to cooperate, given our home advantage, but Olympiacos refused to negotiate. Subsequently, the ministry asked each side for separate assurances, leaving us in uncertainty about whether the game would proceed and when.
“Facing Accusations from Opposing Lawyers – A First for Me”
As I prepared for my court testimony, I found myself facing three lawyers from Olympiacos accusing me directly. I lost my cool but maintained my stance. The remarks made about Türkiye were absolutely racist. “You can insult me, but attacking Türkiye because I’m Turkish is racism,” I asserted, and I stand by that. Although I reacted strongly, I would do it again. This was my first experience being accused like this in court, and it wounded my pride. We performed poorly and lost Game 3. A gesture by a French player toward our fans was unprecedented in sports. Both our president and I faced sanctions, yet the player went unpunished. These events affected us, ultimately leading to Olympiacos winning the championship. To maintain focus, I wore headphones at the start of the game.
“I Have No Grudge Against Fenerbahçe”
Fenerbahçe rightfully defeated us in the Final Four, and I congratulated them afterward. They played better and emerged as champions. When I coincidentally met Ali Koç, after expressing my congratulations, he said: “You’ve always won, but this time, we did.” That’s the nature of sports. Their fans may not be fond of me, but as the coach of Panathinaikos and the Turkish national team, it was appropriate to congratulate the president of a Turkish club that bested us. I hold no personal animosity toward Fenerbahçe. Circumstances have led me to this point. I’ve made mistakes and faced unfair treatment—such is the reality of sports. What transpired in the Greek finals reflects that reality.
“Fenerbahçe’s Investment in Basketball is Vital for Turkey”
I applaud Fenerbahçe on their EuroLeague victory. Their commitment to basketball—initiated by Aziz Yıldırım and Obradović—continues to grow. This is a significant step forward for Turkish sports and the nation. While it may not be football, the EuroLeague garners attention from hundreds of thousands globally, making it noteworthy that a Turkish club has become a champion.
“Provocation Based on My Turkish Identity is Racism”
Waving the Greek flag in my direction is provocative. Panathinaikos is a Greek club, and I respect the Greek people, the country, and its flag—just as I do for all nations. However, insults directed at Turkey because I am Turkish constitute racism. Despite my defense, I received a fine.
“Anadolu Efes is My Second Home”
I know who incited the chants during the Anadolu Efes game. When some in the crowd joined in, I felt disappointed. Anadolu Efes is my home, where we achieved remarkable successes. Even after my departure, I left as a Turkish champion. I conveyed my frustration privately, and our president responded—it was a short-lived incident. In the end, the genuine Efes supporters welcomed me warmly. Every fan base has its provocateurs, and Turkish social media has unfortunately become a breeding ground for negativity. What truly matters is whether club management allows these influences to affect its decisions.
“Micic Wants to Come Back, But We Can’t Afford Him”
We’ve signed TJ Shorts, who had a standout season. Lorenzo Brown has one year remaining on his contract, but his future is uncertain due to not getting the playing time he desired. We’re also unsure about Mathias Lessort’s recovery and whether he will return to form. We are on the lookout for a supporting center to complement him. Vasilije Micic has expressed a desire to return, but we lack the financial resources to bring him back.
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