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Turkish Basketball Federation (TBF) has officially requested an investigation into verbal abuse directed at Ergin Ataman, head coach of both Panathinaikos and Türkiye's national basketball team, during a EuroLeague game in Tel Aviv.
The incident occurred during the EuroLeague’s Round 24 game on Thursday, in which Greek club Panathinaikos lost 75–71 away to Israeli side Maccabi Tel Aviv.
The federation issued a public statement condemning the "abusive chants" from Maccabi supporters on Saturday, emphasizing its commitment to protecting Turkish athletes and staff representing the country on international platforms.
"We strongly condemn the vulgar chants targeting our National Men’s Team Head Coach Mr. Ergin Ataman during the Maccabi Rapyd–Panathinaikos match," the statement read.
The TBF called on EuroLeague organizers to uphold the integrity of the sport and prevent future incidents. "We expect EuroLeague management to thoroughly investigate this grave incident and to promptly implement the necessary disciplinary procedures to ensure that such behavior does not recur," the federation added.
Ataman was targeted as over 300 Maccabi Tel Aviv fans gathered outside Menora Mivtachim Arena, chanting aggressively at the Greek club’s delegation upon arrival.
The hostile reception continued inside the stadium, where supporters loudly booed Ataman as he stepped onto the court.
Speaking after the game, Ataman criticized the handling of the situation by EuroLeague officials. "We come here to do our job, and 10,000 people wait for me in front of the locker room entrance, insulting me for 40 minutes during the match," he said. "From now on, I will no longer compare EuroLeague to the NBA. Referees, league officials, no one does anything."
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