Following a successful EuroBasket 2025 campaign where he guided Turkiye to a silver medal, Ergin Ataman has fully immersed himself in his coaching duties with Panathinaikos Aktor. He is actively preparing the Greek powerhouse for the upcoming 2025-26 EuroLeague and the domestic Stoiximan GBL seasons, harboring high hopes for the team's prospects.
Ataman Eyes Multiple Titles with Panathinaikos Aktor
During Panathinaikos Aktor's preseason tour in Australia, head coach Ergin Ataman exuded confidence regarding his team's potential for the upcoming season. He highlighted the strength of the current roster, noting, \"We possess a formidable team. Over the past two years, our squad has been exceptional, and we've further bolstered it with new acquisitions. I am convinced that we will contend for all major honors throughout the season.\" Ataman acknowledged that several players were still reintegrating after their EuroBasket commitments, yet he underscored the importance of continuity as a cornerstone for future triumphs. Following an exhibition game against Partizan in Melbourne, he elaborated, \"As observed, our fundamental system remains consistent. We retain approximately 90% of our core, and the new additions, such as Vassilis Toliopoulos, whom I greatly admire for his intelligence, will provide significant contributions.\" Demonstrating his belief in the team's depth, he boldly stated, \"I genuinely believe that this season, even if Panathinaikos were to field two distinct teams, both would fiercely compete for a spot in the Final Four.\"
Addressing the fitness of star player Mathias Lessort, who is currently sidelined during the preseason, Ataman offered an encouraging update. \"He certainly requires additional time. However, we've communicated, and he assures me of his progress, suggesting his return might be swifter than anticipated,\" the coach revealed. He concluded with a hopeful note, \"My desire is for Mathias to be back, and I expect all players to be available on the court for our inaugural EuroLeague fixture upon our return to Athens.\" With Athens slated to host the 2026 Final Four, Ataman downplayed any additional pressure stemming from this, asserting, \"I perceive no added pressure due to Athens being the host city. The true pressure lies in qualifying for and ultimately winning the Final Four, irrespective of the venue.\" He lauded the selection of OAKA as the event's location, describing it as \"Europe's most magnificent arena,\" and celebrated the fervent support of both Panathinaikos and Olympiacos fans. \"The most crucial aspect is for both Greek teams to reach the Final Four. Simply because Athens is hosting does not guarantee Panathinaikos and Olympiacos a place. We must earn our way there through sustained effort.\"
Reflecting on his recent experience with Turkiye at the EuroBasket, Ataman admitted a sense of dissatisfaction despite securing a silver medal. \"Everyone rejoiced in our significant achievement, being the first time in many years that we attained such a high placement in an international tournament outside Turkiye. Yet, for me, it's different; I always aspire to win, to be the absolute best,\" he conveyed. He expressed particular frustration over the gold-medal match against Germany, stating, \"When you face a superior opponent and lose, disappointment is understandable. However, in a game where we maintained control from start to finish, only for the outcome to be decided in the final moments, that is genuinely disappointing for me.\"
Ergin Ataman's unwavering self-belief and high expectations serve as a powerful catalyst for Panathinaikos Aktor. His commitment to continuity, combined with strategic new signings, signals a determined push for dominance in European basketball. This proactive approach underscores the essential balance between celebrating past achievements and relentlessly pursuing future glories.
