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Fenerbahce Beko will face Besiktas GAIN in the 38th Men’s Presidential Cup on Wednesday.
Ahead of the match at Sinan Erdem Sports Hall, both head coaches and team captains addressed the media at the pre-game press conference.
Head coach Sarunas Jasikevicius opened the press conference:
“I congratulate both teams for earning the right to play this game. It is a great honor. We are aware of the early-season challenges and the strength of our opponent. Tomorrow, we will do our best to win.”
Team captain Melih Mahmutoglu added:
“It feels great to play for this cup for both teams. Last year, we faced each other in the finals, and I congratulate their performance. Both teams want to win the cup. I also wish Besiktas and all league teams success.”
Head coach Dusan Alimpijevic acknowledged the rivalry with Fenerbahce Beko:
“I congratulate both teams for reaching the final. This year, it is the third time we face Fenerbahce in the final. Reaching the final is a battle for us. Winning a cup in a single match is very difficult and important. I also congratulate Fenerbahce for their achievements in the EuroLeague.”
Captain Yigit Arslan highlighted the significance of the game:
“I congratulate our national team, which recently made the whole country proud. It was predictable that this would happen."
"Facing such an important team will make for a great final. Thanks to our achievements last year, we earned the right to play this game. We want to win the cup,, and we wish Fenerbahce success. We expect our fans in the arena.”
Organized by the Türkiye Basketball Federation since 1985, the Presidential Cup is one of the most prestigious basketball events in the country.
It is a single-match final played between the Türkiye Sigorta Basketball Super League champion and the Türkiye Cup winner at the end of each season.
The game not only marks the season’s opening but also carries significant psychological importance for the teams.
Anadolu Efes holds the record for the most titles, while Fenerbahce Beko has shown consistent success in recent years. Besiktas returns to this competition after a long period, seeking to crown their rising performance.
Recent finals between Fenerbahce Beko and Besiktas GAIN highlight a developing rivalry.
Fenerbahce is seen as the favorite due to their EuroLeague experience and deep rotation, but Besiktas, under Dusan Alimpijevic, has become a young, dynamic team capable of surprises.
Last season, Besiktas’ performance in the Türkiye Cup proved they are a team aiming for the top again. This final represents not just a cup battle but also a clash of two distinct basketball cultures.
The single-game format of the Presidential Cup leaves no room for error. This high-pressure environment tests both players and the coaching staff.
The winner not only secures the first trophy of the season but also gains a significant boost in morale and momentum.
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