Ergin Ataman calls out to PAO fans: 'We want their support' / News - Basketnews.com

The head coach of Panathinaikos Athens, Ergin Ataman issued a call to fans to come and support the team on the 27 October game against Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz. Ataman also provided injury updates for the game in question.

Credit: Vangelis Stolis Credit Vangelis Stolis

Ergin Ataman, who embarked on a new journey with Panathinaikos Athens this year, has so far boasted a 1-3 win-loss record in the EuroLeague with the Greek squad, which remade its squad from scratch.

Free throws this season

74%16,4Points made:16,4Accuracy:73,9%Place in standings:2Record max:21Record min:10Most made FTs:Mathias LessortTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

While the start to the season has been less than stellar, Ataman is encouraging fans to fill the seats of the Olympic Stadium OAKA for the upcoming game against Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz.

In his pre-game statements, Ataman had the following to say.

"I understand that maybe people are not happy because they expect a better picture," Ataman empathized with the fans.

"But they must understand that we are talking about a good team.For a new team... We want their support.More support for these games!I expect more fans tomorrow," Ataman said determinedly.

The Turkish head coach also could not hide his disappointment about the poor turnout in the Greens' latest EuroLeague game against Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv.

"Honestly, when I looked at the stand behind the bench before the match against Maccabi, it was a surprise to see half the seats empty," he said.

Without losing resolve, he laid out his expectations from the fans: "We have to create a good atmosphere and put pressure on everyone!To the opponents, to the referees, to everyone!"

For Ataman, who won the EuroLeague trophy back-to-back in the 2020-21 and 2021-22 seasons, the main motivation is to always keep winning, for which he is counting on the support of Panathinaikos' fans.

"We lost two matches in extra time but from tomorrow we will start winning and it is important to have the people on our side."

The head coach also provided an injury update, stating that Lefteris Mantzoukas was ill and would not be able to play against Baskonia, while Ioannis Papapetrou's operation was successful though the player will be sidelined at least until the end of 2023.

Panathinaikos Athens will host Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz in the OAKA on October 26. Both teams have a record of 1 win and 3 losses after four rounds of competition.

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