Ergin Ataman: Give me Alperen Sengun and I’ll beat the Houston Rockets

Ergin Ataman
Ergin Ataman Nazionale Italiana Maschile Senior Turchia Turkiye - Italia Italy FIBA EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers FIP 2025 Istanbul, 20/02/2025 Foto M.Ceretti / Ciamillo-Castoria

Following Turkey’s win over Czech Republic, head coach Ergin Ataman praised his team’s response after a slow start and highlighted their offensive chemistry

Following Turkey’s win over Czech Republic, head coach Ergin Ataman praised his team’s response after a slow start and highlighted their offensive chemistry: “After playing very well in previous games, teams tend to relax. We experienced that early on. But in the second quarter, we tightened our defense and took control.”

He pointed out Czechia’s unorthodox style: “They’re a tricky opponent, with big men who shoot from the outside. You have to be very alert defensively—just a one-second delay on a switch can cost you a three-pointer.”

Ataman praised Alperen Sengun, calling him “a major force for us. We unlocked the game by getting him the ball.” He added: “We’re sharing the ball very well. Despite many turnovers, we still scored 92 points and secured a clear win.” Looking ahead: “Tomorrow we play Portugal. We have some injuries, but if we win, we guarantee a top-two finish.”

“I saw today that many social media, both in the United States and Europe, wrote about my statement about the difference between the EuroLeague and the NBA. I continue, give me Alperen Sengun from the Houston Rockets to Panathinaikos, and 100% we will beat the Houston Rockets,” he said.

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