Ergin Ataman supports Dimitris Giannakopoulos following EuroLeague playoffs controversy

Panathinaikos head coach Ergin Ataman publicly defended club owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos via an Instagram story. The statement followed the team's 2-0 series lead against Maccabi Tel Aviv in the EuroLeague playoffs, despite the source text incorrectly referencing Valencia. Ataman expressed respect for Giannakopoulos's passion and transparency. The coach addressed criticisms regarding the owner's behavior toward referees, noting that the protests were regarding missed foul calls recorded in the official EuroLeague report. Ataman argued that the owner and his family deserve respect for their contributions to basketball. He further stated that fellow coaches do not have the right to criticize the club president. The remarks served as a response to ongoing public discussions regarding Giannakopoulos's conduct during the playoffs.