Ataman hopes to avoid Fenerbahce in the playoffs: They had a great second half of the season

Anadolu Efes coach Ergin Ataman hopes to avoid Fenerbahce in the Euroleague playoffs.

“We will focus on whoever the opponent is, without underestimating any team. This season showed that many teams can get surprising results. For example, we couldn’t beat Bayern Munich and Zenit, both teams will stay in the playoffs and they are likely to be our opponents.

Another possibility is that we may encounter Fenerbahçe. They also had a great end of the season. Let me be very clear, we do not hesitate to play with any team other than Fenerbahçe Beko. Not only because it is a Turkish team, but when you look at it, Fenerbahçe Beko is the most successful team after us in the second half of the season. Secondly, Fenerbahçe Beko is a Turkish team, and the people want both teams to reach the Final Four. If Fenerbahçe Beko loses against the Real Madrid, it seems 99 percent they will be our opponent. Then, of course, we will fight with all our strength to beat them. I sincerely say that I do not want to face Fenerbahçe Beko in the playoffs”