Ergin Ataman raises concerns about Turkish League referees / News - Basketnews.com

Ataman called upon the Central Arbitration Board, known as MHK, to address the referees' issue urgently: "There may be serious issues in other arenas."

Credit: REUTERS-Scanpix Credit REUTERS-Scanpix

Anadolu Efes Istanbul put on an offensive clinic in Game 1 of the Turkish League quarterfinal series against Darussafaka Lassa, scoring 100 points and securing a 10-point win with a final score of 104-94.

3-pointers this season

39%10,1Points made:10,1Accuracy:38,9%Place in standings:4Record max:17Record min:4Most made 3FGs:Vasilije MicicTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

Following the victory on Saturday, Efes head coach Ergin Ataman addressed the media to share his thoughts on the game and express his concerns about the league referees, specifically calling out the Central Arbitration Board.

"We played great basketball tonight," Ataman started. "We fought hard and played a nearly flawless game, particularly on the offensive end. Nonetheless, we encountered defensive challenges, especially in the second quarter, preventing us from completely dominating the match as we had wanted."

The 57-year-old then shifted his focus to the referees, highlighting a concerning trend he had observed in the playoff games.

"And I have to say this," Ataman went on to say. "I have been closely watching the playoff games in our league since yesterday. With these referees, there are whistles that continue throughout the season. Today, we witnessed Darussafaka being awarded 32 free throws. I watched other games, too.

"Here I am calling out to MHK [Central Arbitration Board]. They should come to these playoff games more carefully, ensuring referees receive thorough training and are more prepared. We've only had one Turkish referee in the EuroLeague for the past decade, while all across Europe, three or four refs officiate games."

Ataman continued, highlighting the quality of the league, and the need for its officials to be recognized at an international level.

"The Turkish Basketball League is currently the best league in Europe," he said. "This has been already seen in the playoff games. But for some reason, our referees cannot be promoted to the next level. We saw that today, too. I also watched the games played in the playoffs last night. Hence, I am calling out to MHK, urging them to address this issue with the utmost sensitivity.

"As we and other teams compete for the championship, unexpected situations may arise. In other words, unforeseen events may transpire on the court, unlike anything we have witnessed before in the Turkish Basketball League. I offer these statements calmly, with Anadolu Efes enjoying the support of fair-minded fans in this arena. However, there may be serious issues in other gyms. Again, I warn you, MHK."

Game 2 of the Efes-Darussafaka best-of-three series is scheduled for Wednesday.

Game 1 highlights:

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