Ataman: 'I thank Giannakopoulos, he gave me motivation'

Panathinaikos coach Ergin Ataman commented on Dimitris Giannakopoulos's outburst after the defeat by Aris, saying that he understands him and that he takes motivation from it.

In the press conference after the 82-81 victory over Real Madrid, Ataman stated: 'I received calls especially from the Turkish media, some from the Greek media. Why didn't I react to Mr. Giannakopoulos's stories? It's very simple! He's like me. I sometimes attack my players in the press conference. He didn't attack me, but all of us. It's normal. He wants to win. He puts in effort, money. He's right. That's his style. He was right. Honestly, I get motivation'.

Additionally, Ergin Ataman referred to the pressure he feels at Panathinaikos and the team's effort to return to success.