Panathinaikos’s EuroLeague Struggles: Can Ataman Turn the Tide?
Panathinaikos suffered a tough 86-80 defeat against Olympiacos in the Greek derby on March 6, 2026, marking their 14th loss in the EuroLeague season. Head coach Ergin Ataman expressed frustration with his team’s performance, particularly in the first half, but remains optimistic about their chances of reaching the playoffs and Final Four.
First-Half Struggles and Aggression
Ataman pinpointed a gradual start and inability to match Olympiacos’s aggression as key factors in the loss. He highlighted turnovers, missed shots, and a lack of response to Olympiacos’s physicality as critical issues. Despite a second-half improvement, a late three-pointer from Dorsey proved decisive.
Rotation and Player Performance
The coach addressed questions about player rotation, stating he aims to give opportunities to all 11 players on the roster. He acknowledged the strong form of Toliopoulos in national team play and noted that although players like Grant and Sloukas are established, others like Shorts haven’t consistently performed. Ataman emphasized that the primary issue wasn’t defensive, but rather offensive errors in the first half that gifted Olympiacos easy points.
Playoff and Final Four Ambitions
Despite the setback, Ataman reiterated his belief in the team’s potential. He anticipates the return of Mathias Lessort this week and sees Nigel Hayes-Davis integrating into the squad after his second EuroLeague game. The coach clearly stated that reaching the playoffs and Final Four remain the team’s goals, acknowledging that failure to achieve these targets would constitute a disappointing EuroLeague season.
Ataman’s Record and Current Context
Ergin Ataman is a highly decorated coach, with three EuroLeague championships (2021, 2022, 2024), a EuroCup title (2016), and numerous Turkish Super League and Cup victories. He is currently managing Panathinaikos of the Greek Basketball League and the EuroLeague, and also serves as the head coach of the Turkish national team. This loss to Olympiacos adds pressure as Panathinaikos currently holds a challenging position in the standings.
The Greek Derby’s Significance
The Greek derby between Panathinaikos and Olympiacos is one of the most fiercely contested rivalries in European basketball. A win carries significant prestige and momentum, while a loss can be particularly damaging to morale and playoff aspirations. The intensity of this rivalry often leads to closely fought games and emotional reactions from players and coaches.
Did you know? Ergin Ataman was named EuroLeague Coach of the Year in 2021.
FAQ
Q: What is Ergin Ataman’s current role?
A: He is the head coach of Panathinaikos and the Turkish national team.
Q: What are Panathinaikos’s current goals for the EuroLeague season?
A: To reach the playoffs and the Final Four.
Q: What did Ataman identify as the key issue in the loss to Olympiacos?
A: A poor first-half performance and inability to match Olympiacos’s aggression.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on the return of Mathias Lessort, as his presence could significantly impact Panathinaikos’s performance.
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