After winning the EuroLeague with Panathinaikos, Ergin Ataman received a weighty compliment: he would quite simply be the best coach in the world. It was Giannis Antetokounmpo – brother of Kostas, player of the Greek team – who said it. Just that.
“He came after the match and told me I was the best coach in the world. If the NBA MVP says that to me, I'm very proud. He didn't tell me about Europe, he told me that I was the best coach in the world. Thank you, Giannis”commented the Turk.
Therefore, could the best technician in the world not have his place in the NBA? If a door opens, he is ready to walk through it. “It used to be my dream, not anymore. But if we want a star coach from Europe, I'm there. Why would I be afraid of coaching NBA stars? »he asks for A.S..
If Ergin Ataman tempers Giannis Antetokounmpo's compliment, he highlights his brilliant record in recent years with three EuroLeagues (2021 and 2022 with Efes, then 2024).
“I don't feel like I'm the best coach in the world, I can't compare myself to NBA coaches. I'm not the best in the history of European basketball but if we have to give a gold medal over the last five years… In this period, I made four Final Fours and won three titles. It's quite unique. If we talk about results, I am the best in five years. »
“I’m number one in the Euroleague. So why should I be an NBA assistant?
Two years ago, the coach had contacts. No result. He who hopes to make history by becoming the first European to go directly from Europe to the United States, without becoming an assistant for a few years first. A path that he always criticizes.
“I’m 58 years old. I am number one in the Euroleague. So why should I be an NBA assistant? “, he insists. “If I am offered a chance, with what I have achieved in Europe, it is to become the coach. This is my position, until now. »
The options are therefore quite limited. Currently, in the NBA, there are only two head coach positions available: with the Cavaliers and with the Lakers. James Borrego in Cleveland and JJ Redick in Los Angeles seem to hold the rope for the moment.
In addition, the reluctance of franchises is still strong regarding European coaches. Is Ergin Ataman's style compatible with the NBA game? ” Of course. Why not ? It's basically basketball. I have coached great NBA players. During the lockout, I had Deron Williams, Allen Iverson. Then Kendrick Nunn »he recalls. “People say that my style gives freedom to the players, and is based on strong defense. I know how to manage players, I know how to detect their strengths and weaknesses. It's my style. »
