Ataman, the head coach of the star-crescent team, who carried out their last training at the Savaria Arena in Szombathely, Hungary, made a statement to the press.
Stating that they played very good basketball in the first match against Hungary, Ataman said, “We played with great self-confidence in Istanbul. We clearly reflected the difference in quality on the field. Away matches are tough and dangerous matches. We will play in a small hall. It’s a hall that we’re not used to. There will be pressure and usually the teams that lost the first match differently play very aggressively on their own field. We must play without losing too many balls. We now need a win to qualify for the European Championship. “The first of the remaining three matches is tomorrow and we want to win.” he said.
Emphasizing that their only concentration is on winning the match tomorrow, Ataman said:
“We have very big goals in the European Championship. But let’s wait a bit. First, let’s buy a championship ticket. Hopefully we will win tomorrow. I think it will be a very good squad in the European Championship. Onuralp and Ömer Faruk are our players playing in Europe. They make great sacrifices. It is good for us that they both join the team. We have seen that now our players enjoy playing in the national team. This is how it should be. It is a pride for all of us to be under the star and crescent flag. Beyond everything. That’s why I thank them.”
Opinions of national basketball players
National basketball player Onuralp Bitim expressed his happiness to wear the crescent-star jersey again.
Pointing out the importance of the Hungary match, Onuralp said, “It is very valuable to wear the crescent-star jersey and be on the field wherever you are. “We want to win the match we play tomorrow and take our place in the European Championship.” he said.
National basketball player Ömer Faruk Yurtseven said, “We are ready for the match tomorrow. I think we will win and participate in the European Championship. We need a win for the European Championship. Everyone is aware of its seriousness. That’s why we will come out ready.” made his assessment.
