Panathinaikos head coach Ergin Ataman criticizes performance following victory over AEK

Panathinaikos defeated AEK at OAKA stadium despite a difficult start to the game. Head coach Ergin Ataman expressed significant frustration during the first half, as the team trailed by as much as 17 points at one stage. Ataman publicly criticized center Richaun Holmes, claiming he was not focused on the court during the opening minutes. The coach also noted that the team’s defensive intensity was lacking, leading to 31 points conceded in the first quarter. Following the halftime adjustments, Panathinaikos regained control to secure the win. Ataman confirmed that the upcoming return of Mathias Lessort will force a rotation change due to restrictions on the number of foreign players allowed on the roster. The coach emphasized that those who do not put in sufficient effort risk losing their place in the team. Despite the mid-game tension, Ataman praised the character of his players for turning the game around.