Fenerbahce GM addresses Olympiacos' referee criticism, gives timeline for Pierre / News - Basketnews.com

Derya Yannier discussed Dyshawn Pierre's injury, stating that the player will be out for 3-4 weeks due to a second-degree calf strain, and emphasized the need to focus on the on-court dynamics rather than off-court factors, responding to Olympiacos' criticism of referees.

Credit: Emre Oktay/GettyImages Credit Emre Oktay/GettyImages

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul general manager Derya Yannier discussed the recent developments with Burak Alaca of Ajansspor.

Player of the Game EFF 19 Georgios Papagiannis Points 15 Accuracy 6-8 Rebounds 2 Assists 1

Addressing Dyshawn Pierre's injury during the EuroLeague Round 6 game against Olympiacos Piraeus, Yannier provided the timetable for the player's return.

"Dyshawn Pierre is an important player in our strategy. He started the match very well but then injured his calf. We did not want to risk the player during the rest of the game. He has a second-degree calf strain," Yannier said.

"As you know, calf injuries can cause problems, and if they recur, the recovery process can take longer. Our medical team started monitoring the process for his return. He will not be able to be with us for approximately 3-4 weeks," the executive added.

Regarding Olympiacos' post-game protest criticizing the referees, Yannier expressed his preference for focusing on the on-court dynamics.

He highlighted the competitive nature of the games between Fenerbahce and Olympiacos, referencing both last season's playoff series and regular-season games.

"First of all, I do not find it right to focus on off-court factors. There was a good competition between Olympiacos and us. Both last season's play-off series and regular-season games witnessed good stories. I think there was an example of this competition in yesterday's fight. At the end of the game, we were the winners; they had also won matches before," Yannier said.

"I think it would be beneficial to stay in basketball. Our opponent criticized some of the decisions at the end of the game. However, just before the possession they criticized, some decisions could be evaluated and criticized differently by both sides. If you remember, there were decisions that could be discussed at the end of the games in last season's play-off series," he continued.

"As I said, I do not find it correct to read these statements. Of course, referees are a part of basketball. Everyone can seek their rights when they get hurt. Authorized authorities will make the necessary evaluations on this matter. Apart from that, I congratulate both sides on the game."

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