Obradovic: 'Ataman has excellent offensive collaborations'

Panathinaikos head coach Zeljko Obradovic expressed admiration for his counterpart Ergin Ataman's offensive playcalling, stating he plans to adopt some of Ataman's successful strategies for his own team. Obradovic highlighted Ataman's "excellent offensive collaborations" as something he intends to utilize.

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The coach Ataman had some excellent attacks. We will use those. It is easier for the players.

Obradovic also commented on the compressed timeframe for team preparation, contrasting the current 32 days with the previous 75 days available for preseason. This shorter period presents challenges in getting all players back to peak physical condition, with some arriving ready while others need more time. He stressed the need to move quickly and efficiently during this limited window.

The Serbian coach detailed his approach to integrating new key players, including Kendrick Nunn and Kostas Sloukas. Obradovic plans to understand their comfort zones and preferred playing styles, while also guiding them to play a more significant role and pass more often. He acknowledged that talented players generally adapt quickly, but the challenge lies in ensuring they understand and execute the team's system.

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We have 32 days of preparation until the first official game. We have to do the medical examinations. For every three days of training, on the fourth they must have a day off. Not everyone returns in perfect condition. Some are fully ready and some are not.

Defense, particularly in transition, was identified as a primary focus for the team, followed by establishing their 5-on-5 play according to their rules. Obradovic indicated a gradual development process, emphasizing adaptability and ensuring all players are on the same page. The coach's comments reflect a strategic approach to building team cohesion and effectiveness within a demanding schedule.

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The basics are defense, how you defend in transition, which is very important. Then we go to 5 against 5 with our rules. We will adapt and then slowly to the offense.