Ergin Ataman makes a statement on Efes' vote and Fenerbahce's disadvantage / News - Basketnews.com

Credit: imago images/Eibner-Scanpix Credit imago images/Eibner-Scanpix

Recently EuroLeague licensed clubs decided that the classification system will not include any games featuring the three Russian teams: CSKA Moscow, Zenit Saint Petersburg, and UNICS Kazan.

2-pointers this season

56%19,6Points made:19,6Accuracy:55,7%Place in standings:8Record max:28Record min:14Most made 2FGs:Vasilije MicicTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

The main issue was whether the teams' rankings would be decided on the basis of each squad's winning percentage. It was a proposal strongly favored by Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul, who had a perfect 3-0 against Russian teams.

Anadolu Efes Istanbul were on the opposing end, as the reigning EuroLeague champs voted in favor of the decision that prevailed in the end.

With a majority of 7-6, the 13 clubs decided on scrapping both wins or losses against Russian clubs.

You can find the updated standings here >>

Because of this situation, yesterday, Fenerbahce released the official announcement, expressing their strong disagreement with the decision and also questioning the stance of their fellow Turkish team, Anadolu Efes.

In order to defend their position, Anadolu Efes' head coach Ergin Ataman voiced the club's attitude in the latest official statement by the current EuroLeague winners.

Ergin Ataman's statement:

"After the painful developments in Ukraine, I would like to make a statement based on the created perception about our decision in the voting that will determine the future of the EuroLeague teams.

First of all, 13 teams participated in the voting and made the choice, which would be most advantageous for them. 8 weeks till the competition end, we voted with the same logic, and the classification system was accepted with a margin of 1 vote.

I am also sorry for the Russian teams' athletes, coaches, and technical staff regarding the current situation. I wish this war never happened and all the teams could be on the court.

Fenerbahce Istanbul / Schedule

Anadolu Efes Istanbul Fenerbahce Istanbul84-79 Fenerbahce Istanbul CSKA MoscowThu17:45 Fenerbahce Istanbul FC Bayern Munich03-1517:45

Talking about the recent voting results, a disadvantageous situation occurred for 6 teams, including Fenerbahce. As a sports person, I stated that this voting is unfair and that it will give a potential disadvantage for Fenerbahce.

In sports, it is as important to protect the representing club's rights as it is to win on the court. In every club, whether domestic or foreign, I have always tried to carry the Turkish nation's reputation to the top.

I always made headlines with my Turkish identity in the clubs I coached in Europe. While winning the most important basketball trophies with Turkish squads, I felt the pride of raising the Turkish flag to the top.

I have been the person who raised his voice the loudest wherever Turkish teams suffered an injustice. I fearlessly criticized every unit, organization, and structure when appropriate.

Again, I would like to state that my desire for both Turkish teams is to qualify for the Final Four and for Turkish basketball to be at the top.

I reiterate my wish for the suffering in Ukraine to end as soon as possible."

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