EuroLeague Basketball has issued a formal response to the recent accusations made by Panathinaikos and its head coach, Ergin Ataman, following their Game 1 loss in the EuroLeague Playoffs against Maccabi.
The statement expresses disappointment in the public statements and events that unfolded after the game, emphasizing the contradiction with the principles of respect and unity among EuroLeague member clubs, coaches, players, and officials.
EuroLeague Basketball addressed the “purposefully misleading and incorrect” statements made by Ataman, which sought to question the integrity of the officials and put undue pressure on them and the league organization.
The response asserts that such actions will not achieve their intended objectives and emphasizes the importance of accurate analysis and respectful conduct.
According to the statement, the disciplinary procedures have been initiated by EuroLeague Basketball in response to the events that transpired during the obligatory open-to-media practice on April 24, 2024, where Mr. Ataman prevented journalists from performing their duties.
Previously, Panathinaikos released a statement expressing frustration with what they perceive as unjust treatment and interference in the integrity of the game.
Panathinaikos emphasized its commitment to the sport’s advancement and its historical contributions to basketball, urging EuroLeague Basketball to acknowledge its legacy and cease underestimating its significance.
Ανακοίνωση ΚΑΕ Παναθηναϊκός AKTOR
Δυστυχώς, για ακόμη μια φορά, φτάνοντας στο πιο κρίσιμο σημείο της σεζόν στην Ευρωλίγκα και έχοντας κάνει ως Παναθηναϊκός μια μεγάλη προσπάθεια να επιστρέψουμε στα υψηλότερα σκαλοπάτια, γίναμε μάρτυρες μιας «καταδρομικής επιχείρησης» βγαλμένης… pic.twitter.com/UT9btlgDgp
— Panathinaikos BC (@paobcgr) April 24, 2024
