The Greeks reached the final four after a 12-year break.
The strategist of the Greek club, Ergin Ataman, said after the series that his students deserved this achievement, and the team had faith throughout the series, despite the poor start.
“We managed to keep the series going in this incredible atmosphere. We had an amazing season, we deserved it.
We played great all season, finishing the regular season in second place. We lost the first match, but we never lost confidence, we always believed in these players”, said E. Ataman.
The Turk also pulled out his signature gesture again, the raised fists to symbolize lifting the cup.
“I want to show these fists to all our fans, to all the Turkish people who support me and to Europe. We will be candidates for the Euroleague title”, said the strategist happily.
After the first match of the quarter-final series, E. Ataman made a very loud statement. Turk said that if his team does not reach the final four, he will leave the team.
Marius Grigonis also reacted to these words of the coach. The “Panathinaikos” basketball player said that there are “zero chances” for such an action.
E. Atamanas, who visited the players’ locker room after the victory, remembered these words of the Lithuanian.
“I saw the interview of Grigo (ed. – M.Grigonis). After the first match, I said that I will no longer coach Panathinaikos if we do not reach the final four. Grig said there is 0 chance of that. Obviously 0 chance because we will win! Enjoy guys, you did a good job. Two wins away from the title. Two more!”, said E. Ataman to the players.
In the semi-finals, Panathinaikos will face the winners of Monaco and Istanbul Fenerbahce.
Tags: Responding Grigonis interview Ataman deserve
