Ergin Ataman, the head coach of Panathinaikos, spoke after his team’s win over Lavrio by 111:75 in Greek Basket League.
The Turkish coach was satisfied with the win. This hasn’t been a common occurrence this season, and he emphasized that he saw evident progress in their work.
“We started the game excellently, were focused, and moved the ball well. We had control. In the second quarter, we allowed them easy points as they tried to get back into the game, and we became too relaxed. In the final quarter, we were aggressive on defense. The teams are not on the same level, but I saw progress in our teamwork, which is important for our morale,” Ataman began.
He also spoke about the further plans of “The Greens,” the two-time EuroLeague champion with Anadolu Efes. He stated that Ioannis Papapetrou will go under the surgeon’s knife.
“After what happened with Papapetrou, who will undergo surgery tomorrow and will be absent for two to three months, our goal, in addition to the return of Dinos Mitoglou, is to test Hernangomez at the three-position. We only have Marius Grigonis in that position. Of course, it’s not easy; it takes two to three years to learn the position. Juancho is a four. We are making efforts; it’s easier in the Greek league than in the EuroLeague. We’ll use him for five to eight minutes in the three-position if we need strength there,” concluded Ergin Ataman.
