This week's theme of iconic coaches facing their former teams continues as Panathinaikos (11-8) boss Ergin Ataman prepares to welcome Efes (7-12).
Darius Thompson, Efes: 'We know that it’s a long season'
Seasons
3 Mins read
Regular Season
Round 20 of 34
Regular Season
Panathinaikos AKTOR AthensPAO
8376
Anadolu Efes IstanbulEFS
Overview
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Last week's record-breaking loss to Real was the latest in a six-game losing slide from the Turkish team, which needs more than just Shane Larkin's scoring heroics to reignite its playoff hopes. Panathinaikos, which will play four out of its next five games in Athens, will have to do without Luca Vildoza, who scored a season-high 19 points in a win at Valencia last time out but suffered a knee injury over the weekend. The Greens may be able to welcome back Kostas Sloukas, however. Efes beat Panathinaikos 71-68 in Round 12 behind 21 points from Tyrique Jones.
Ergin Ataman, Panathinaikos head coach
"We already started the second half of the regular season, and we stand fourth in the standings. We have the advantage and now we will play two home court games. It is extremely important for us to be ready for this at all levels. We have some injury problems, but Efes also has them. We must play aggressive and smart to make the symnergy with the sold out OAKA. Efes showed great poential, especially in ther last game in Madrid. Defense will be the key, for sure, against Efes."
Erdem Can, Efes head coach
"We start the consecutive double-round week against Panathinaikos AKTOR on the road. There will be a tough atmosphere. We need to keep our energy and toughness for 40 minutes."
Juancho Hernangomez, Panathinaikos player
"Every game is a must-win game. We have to come out aggressive because we play at home. We must get this win. ON the road games are toughm, but I hope we can get our revenge at OAKA. Playing hard will be the key for us to win this game."
Darius Thompson, Efes player
"The results haven’t been how we’ve wanted recently, but we know that it’s a long season that comes with its ups and downs. Our team is staying together and focused to take it day by day to get out of this period."