Ataman confirms meeting with Panathinaikos: 'I need that excitement' / News - Basketnews.com

Ergin Ataman confirmed a recent report about a meeting between him and Panathinaikos management. He says he welcomes the change and thinks that's what he currently needs.

Credit: Vangelis Stolis Credit Vangelis Stolis

After guiding the team to two EuroLeague titles, Ergin Ataman's contract with Anadolu Efes Istanbul ends after the season. In recent weeks, the Turkish specialist has been flirting with the idea of joining Panathinaikos Athens.

Free throws this season

74%16,0Points made:16,0Accuracy:74,2%Place in standings:4Record max:26Record min:5Most made FTs:Dwayne BaconTeamEuroLeagueStatisticsSchedule

A report recently came out, claiming that the newly-appointed Panathinaikos GM Sani Becirovic, club owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos, and communications director Dimitris Kontos met with Ataman and his wife in Athens.

Talking with Turkish television NTV, the specialist confirmed the meeting.

"I had a meeting with the Panathinaikos president, it was our first meeting. In principle, we agreed on many issues," he said. "Now I'm still the coach of Anadolu Efes though, and a struggle continues in the Turkish League. After this struggle is over, we will sit down with the president again, but most likely, 90% seems like I will undertake this mission."

Nevertheless, Ataman admitted that it's a change he welcomes in his coaching career.

"If it happens, it will be exciting to be working in a Greek club for the first time, and in one of the biggest clubs in Europe," Ataman told. "Maybe I need that excitement."

Per the same report, some issues regarding the roster ahead of next season were discussed, including the moves that have been made so far and the ones about to follow.

Several weeks ago, Giannakopoulos welcomed Ataman to the team with a post and story on Instagram. "Welcome. Ataman has signed," Giannakopoulos wrote.

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