Ataman reflects on sleepless night before derby, tricks that defeated Olympiacos / News - Basketnews.com

Ataman opens up about his unique coaching style: "I'm not a coach who uses tactics."

Credit: Vangelis Stolis Credit Vangelis Stolis

Kostas Sloukas made a triumphant return to the Piece and Friendship Stadium, where Panathinaikos Athens secured their first away victory against Olympiacos Piraeus since November 2021, ending a 7-game losing streak.

3-pointers this season

36%9,0Points made:9,0Accuracy:35,7%Place in standings:9Record max:10Record min:7Most made 3FGs:Marius GrigonisTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

Following a 66-54 domestic derby win, PAO head coach Ergin Ataman openly admitted the intensity of the match affected his sleep the night before.

"It was an emotionally charged game. I couldn't sleep last night," he told ERT post-game. "I am pleased not only with the outcome but also with various aspects. It was strange to lose in the EuroLeague last time, considering we were in control.

"Tonight, our defense was really good. Although offensively we were not good, just like Olympiacos, we got the victory."

Dinos Mitoglou played a pivotal role in the victory, delivering a strong double-double with 20 points, 10 rebounds, and a game-high 26 PIR. Juancho Hernangomez contributed 10 points and 5 boards, while Sloukas added 5 points, 5 rebounds, and 5 assists.

While talking about Mitoglou and Hernangomez, Ataman made an interesting comment about his coaching and tactical approach to games.

"I'm not a coach who uses tactics, but we utilized a lot of tricks with Juancho and Mitoglou in the 5 to bolster our strength," Ataman said.

Next, PAO travel to Barcelona to face the Catalans in a EuroLeague Round 6 game on Friday.

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