Ergin Ataman and Richaun Holmes spoke to the media on behalf of Panathinaikos BC AKTOR ahead of tomorrow’s game against Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul (13/02, 21:15) at Telekom Center Athens.

In his statement, the coach said: “First of all, I would like to thank all the clubs for their condolences and the messages they sent me. It was a difficult moment for me, but now it is time to focus. Over the past two days we have worked very well. We have a very good staff and I know that great work has been done. It will be a very tough, very difficult game. Even though we beat them in the first round in Istanbul, up to now they are the best team. We must play aggressively in the incredible atmosphere that our fans will create. I am sure my players will find a way to win the game.

We are professionals. Of course, I am tired, but today I will rest and tomorrow I will be focused on winning the game. We have a deep roster. During the season we had injury problems. For 3–4 weeks we played without a center. We lost games to teams that are not in a good position in the standings, but we were playing without Nunn. The player who is the top scorer and MVP is very important to the system. Tomorrow we will be at 100% and we will fight to win. Kendrick Nunn is 100% ready. He has missed games, but he is experienced and I believe he can play 25–30 minutes.

In the three years I have been working here, I have received love from the Panathinaikos fans. They love Panathinaikos. Now we are fighting to keep the team in a high position in the EuroLeague.”

From his side, Richaun Holmes noted: “Our hearts are with the coach and his family. We will help him as much as we can, while at the same time trying to do our job. It will be a tough game; they are in first place for a reason. I come in and try to win, to play hard, and to have the right mindset.

I play hard in every game. We will see the result. I will do the best I can and hopefully we get the win. I need to learn how the referees officiate. It is not the same every time; the rules are not applied the same way in every game. I need to learn that and adjust in each game. If I do that, I will be fine.”