Euroleague Coach Challenges Celtics to a Showdown
Coach Ergin Ataman has sparked controversy with his latest bravado, challenging the Boston Celtics to a match at the OAKA, claiming that only the Euroleague champion can be considered the world champion.
Ataman, who led Panathinaikos to Euroleague championship this season, criticized the Celtics’ tweet proclaiming themselves as world champions after winning the NBA title, stating that they are not the world champions if they have not beaten the Euroleague champions. He also challenged the Celtics to come to the OAKA and call themselves world champions if they can defeat Panathinaikos.
When asked about his options to coach in the NBA, Ataman revealed that he values his current contract with Panathinaikos and is not in a hurry to leave. He believes that he would fit well into the American competition due to his relaxed attitude, connection with fans, relationship with players, and style of play. He also has the sponsorship of Giannis Antetokounmpo, who praised him after his victory in the Euroleague Final Four.
However, Ataman’s chances of going to the NBA in the short term seem remote, as he is satisfied with Panathinaikos dominating the Euroleague and the club seems delighted with him. He has mentioned a possible contract extension, but is not in a hurry to renew his contract.
For now, it seems like the closest Ataman could get to the NBA is through his hypothetical challenge to the Celtics, a matchup that would determine who is the true world champion.