Ataman takes responsibility for disappointing Efes season: 'I'm so sad' / News - Basketnews.com

Ataman apologized to the supporters, club, and board, acknowledging his mistake and fault.

Credit: REUTERS-Scanpix Credit REUTERS-Scanpix

Back-to-back EuroLeague champions Anadolu Efes Istanbul finished the regular season on a high note by defeating AS Monaco 87-72 at home.

However, there was little celebration from the team as they did not qualify for the EuroLeague playoffs this season.

Head coach Ergin Ataman took responsibility for the difficulties endured by his squad and a failed three-peat mission.

"I am so sad. I would like to apologize to Anadolu Efes' supporters, club, and board," Ataman was emotional post-game. "We have a great team. After four years, this season we fell. My mistake, my fault, sorry to everybody. That's all."

Ataman led Efes to a club renaissance since taking over the team in 2017.

After a terrific run, when Efes went from the worst team all the way to the EuroLeague final in the 2018-19 season, Ataman also lifted two EuroLeague trophies in the last two years.

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