Ataman: “I thank Mr Giannakopoulos for his understanding, I am grateful”

He will not follow his mission in the game with Zalgiris in Kaunas on November 21 for Euroleague. Christos Serelis will take the position of Erkin Ataman against the Lithuanians, as the Turkish coach has taken leave from the greens to be on the bench of the national Turkey in games with Hungary, on 22 November in Istanbul and away three days after (25/11) for Eurobasket qualifiers. The Turkish technician of Panathinaikos expressed through social media his gratitude to Dimitris Giannakopoulos, stressing that he appreciates the understanding shown to him by the powerful man of the clover. At the same time he stressed that this move contributes significantly to cooperation and friendship between the two countries in the context of the struggle. In detail what he wrote: “I would like to thank Panathinaikosoli’s president, Mr. Dimitris Giannakopoulos, for the understanding and special permission he gave me to coach the national Turkish in the game with Hungary, which coincides with our game in EuroLeague against Zalgris Kaunas. His decision allows me to serve the interests of both our club and my national team. At the same time, this move contributes significantly to cooperation and friendship between the two countries in the context of the struggle. The game with Zalgiris is of course very important. Nevertheless, our national team also has a crucial game for EuroBasket qualifiers. I am grateful to Mr Giannakopoulos for his understanding. Although I will not be able to be at the helm of Panathinaikos, I am optimistic that my team and my players will do their best against Zalgris. I believe my assistant, Christos Serelis, will fulfill his duties properly. I have no doubt that the team will demonstrate its racing spirit, as always.”