EuroLeague has decided to initiate proceedings against Ergin Ataman and Panathinaikos for criticizing the refereeing.
The Turkish coach openly criticized the referees after the loss to Maccabi Tel Aviv in the first game of the quarterfinals. The day after, “The Greens” issued a statement with significant political implications. This did not sit well with officials of the elite competition.
They responded with an official statement, which we reproduce in full:
“EuroLeague expresses disappointment over the public statements made by Mr. Ergin Ataman, the head coach of Panathinaikos, as well as the club itself, and over other events that occurred after the first playoff game played by the club as the host in Athens on Tuesday, April 23, 2024.
Such actions and statements are completely contrary to the joint statement that EuroLeague issued on April 15, 2024, together with the EuroLeague Head Coaches Board (EHCB), EuroLeague Players Association (ELPA), and Union of Euroleague Basketball Officials (UEBO), as they create unnecessary and unfounded conflicts that the four organizations, representing their member clubs, coaches, players, and officials, have all committed to prevent.
The statements made by coach Ataman are deliberately misleading and inaccurate – providing incorrect analyses of the game and carefully selecting a few plays, attempting to question the work and integrity of the officials and putting additional pressure on them and the league organization – attempts that obviously will not achieve their goals.
Unfortunately, these statements were not presented to EuroLeague officials through existing official channels, which are always open to coach Ataman, his club, and any other club and coach in the competition.
Such behavior will not be tolerated by EuroLeague. Disciplinary proceedings have already been initiated, as well as for the events that occurred at the mandatory open media training on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, when Mr. Ataman prevented journalists from performing their duties.
EuroLeague’s respect for the organization, community, and heritage of Panathinaikos is undoubtedly significant, and it is equal to the respect given to all other clubs in the competition. The events that occurred after the first EuroLeague playoff game are contrary to the principles of respect among clubs, towards the organization they all manage, and the values that the competition aims to promote.
EuroLeague encourages coach Ataman, Panathinaikos, and all other clubs and individuals to avoid similar statements and behavior in future matches, and to promote the values that EuroLeague aims to create a positive atmosphere around the games and celebrate incredible effort and action on the court.”
