Ataman and one of the national players Ömer Faruk Yurtseven made statements to the press after the match played at the Vertu Motors Arena in Newcastle, England.
“The England game was an important game for us. It was a game we had to win.” Ataman said that from time to time they play a very good basketball, especially they have a serious advantage in the physical sense.
Ataman stated that they took control of the match by increasing their defensive aggression in the second half of the match, playing doubles under the basket, the balls stolen by Yurtseven and Şehmus Hazer, and the points scored by Shane Larkin.
Underlining that they achieved an important and excellent win in Newcastle, Ataman continued his words as follows:
“We are a new team. There is a new team and I am very happy with the responsibility my players have taken and the struggle they have given. I think we represent Turkey with the crescent and star flag here tonight in the best way. In the last 3 games played by England on this field, “Considering that they beat Germany, France and finally Greece, it’s an important win. Even though it’s not a team at our level, it’s important, it’s very important for us to get a win from here.”
“We have given a very good message to Europe. We are everywhere”
Underlining that many Turkish sides support them this evening, Ataman said, “This shows our unity and strength. This creates serious synergies for us and all of us.” made its assessment.
Thanking the Turkish sides who came to Newcastle for the match, Ataman said, “We have given a very good message to Europe. We are everywhere.” he said.
“Missing players will join the team in August”
Ataman underlined that it is very important for him to coach especially the national team and expressed that he is honored to represent Turkey.
In addition, Ataman emphasized that the missing team players will be included in the team in August, so that the team will become much stronger.
Stating that one of the players, Larkin, is now a part of the Turkish national team and he feels good because he lives in Turkey, Ataman underlined that Larkin will make a great contribution to the team.
Yurtseven: “I think we were able to reflect that excitement and ambition”
Yurtseven, one of the national players, stated that they came into the game with all the cards ready, “Of course, there are missing players, but I think we were able to reflect that excitement and ambition.” used the phrase.
Stating that the Great Britain team is not at the level of the Turkish team, but their victory against a team that won 3 wins is important, Yurtseven said, “Since it is Turkey we represent, I think we do a good job every time we step on the field, every game.” said.
