Ergin Ataman eyes big goals for PAO, remains open to future roster adjustments / News - Basketnews.com

Ergin Ataman expressed his readiness to lead the team's pursuit of the EuroLeague Final Four and the Greek championship. He also kept the possibility of future roster adjustments open under president Giannakopoulos.

Credit: Vangelis Stolis Credit Vangelis Stolis

Ergin Ataman has wrapped up his duties with the Turkish national team in the FIBA Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament and has now landed in Athens, representing Panathinaikos as their new head coach.

In response to his arrival in Greece, Ataman stated, "It is a new challenge for me, just like for Panathinaikos after many years. We have assembled a great team, and together, we will fight for the big goals. The first goal for PAO and me is the EuroLeague Final Four, and from there, everything is open. Certainly, there are many teams with the same goal and very good rosters, but we also built our team to fight. We are not afraid of anyone."

Addressing the Greek championship, Ataman spoke:

"We want to win the title, and that's why I'm here. I want to change the situation of the last two years. With great respect to Olympiacos, they have a very good team, but this year, we will win the championship."

Regarding the completely new roster and the dynamics within the team, Ataman commented that navigating this squad should not be a significant hurdle.

"It's not a big problem. We chose good players," he said.

When asked about the possibility of further roster changes, Ataman responded, "With president Dimitris Giannakopoulos, everything is possible! We will see the roster and how the preparation will develop. If there is a need, I will talk to the president, but now, we are fine. The team is perfect.

"I want to see the pre-season friendlies and training sessions. If a player is needed before the EuroLeague starts, we will go on the market. It's not time to think about transfers."

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