Here’s a rewritten version of the content:
—
Ergin Ataman discussed the upcoming match against his former team, stating: “It’s definitely going to be a tough game. Every matchup in this series has been closely contested. Efes is filled with experienced players who know how to fight. We need to maintain our composure, be aggressive on both ends of the court, play our game, and come out with a win.”
On the crucial plays that determined earlier games, and whether he hopes for a more comfortable win in Game 5, he remarked: “I can’t say… Naturally, I want us to emerge victorious. But both teams have a lot of talent and are well-acquainted with each other’s strategies. It’s vital for us to be aggressive in every possession and to unite with our fans. Support from our home crowd will be crucial. We need to concentrate on each play; winning every possession will lead us to victory.”
Commenting on the rapid sell-out of tickets within four hours and the team’s mindset, he expressed: “It’s not surprising that our fans sold out the arena so quickly; that’s been a consistent trend this season. Our supporters have always been with us. Tomorrow, we don’t need to put on a show; we need to compete and have our sixth player—the crowd—with us. We hope to receive extra energy and motivation from them without disrespecting anyone, including the referees, Efes players, or their organization, which we hold in high regard. We need our fans to fully back our team and fight for every possession.”
Emphasizing the significance of playing at home, he noted: “I reminded my players that hosting the 5th game is far better than playing it on the road. Whether this will be an advantage, we’ll find out tomorrow.”
When asked about his feelings regarding the events in Game 4 involving the Turkish team’s fans, he replied: “Honestly, I’m not focusing on that right now. Nothing can overshadow my memories and respect for Efes. I have friends there, including the team president and his family. Such incidents happen sometimes with fans. However, I believe our supporters possess a deeper understanding of basketball and respect. I hope our fans will offer their unwavering support tomorrow, without targeting anyone. I know Efes was concerned about that situation in the fourth game, but these things happen in life. My focus is solely on Game 5, aiming for good basketball and victory.”
Finally, regarding player availability for Game 5, he mentioned: “Are you asking about Matias? I’m not sure. He hasn’t practiced in four months. As for the rest, there are no new issues, so we’ll have the same lineup.”
With tradition on their side, Panathinaikos is set to face Efes at 21:45 in Game 5 of the Euroleague playoffs.
Now tied at 2-2 in the series and with OAKA sold out since the night of Game 4 in Constantinople, Panathinaikos aims for a win to advance to the Final-4 in Abu Dhabi.
There, they will encounter Fenerbahce, which eliminated Paris. Panathinaikos started strong at OAKA, leading 1-0, but Efes equalized 1-1. The Greens responded with a 2-1 lead, only for the Turks to tie it again at 2-2 in Constantinople.
Panathinaikos has previously played two Game 5s at OAKA, winning both. Lesor and Grigonis are the only absences for the Greens, while for Efes, Dozier, Poirier, and Osmani are available, but Beaubois will not play.
Ask me anything
Explore related questions
