Ergin Ataman
Best Coach of FIBA EuroBasket 2025
Coach of the TournamentRiga (Latvia) – Legendary coach Ergin Ataman has been named the Best Coach of FIBA EuroBasket 2025, after guiding Türkiye to their first podium finish in 24 years. This honor is not only a personal milestone but also a symbol of Türkiye's basketball revival on the international stage.
A 24-Year Wait Ends
Türkiye reached the EuroBasket Final for the first time since 2001, marking a new chapter in national basketball history. Despite falling 88-83 to powerhouse Germany in the title game, Türkiye matched their best-ever EuroBasket result, alongside their runner-up finish at the 2010 FIBA Basketball World Cup.
Perfect Group Stage
Under Ataman's leadership, Türkiye went undefeated in the Group Phase. The highlight was a thrilling victory against tournament favorites Serbia, one of the best games of the competition.
Undefeated group stage record with a standout victory over tournament favorites Serbia
Knockout Stage Drama
- Round of 16: A tough battle against Sweden, narrowly secured in the closing minutes.
- Quarter-Finals: A convincing win over Poland re-established momentum.
- Semi-Finals: Ataman masterminded a blowout win over Greece, ending a 24-year wait for another EuroBasket Final appearance.
Shutting Down Giannis
The 59-year-old coach received widespread praise for his defensive strategy against Greek superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo. Giannis was limited to just 12 points, snapping his remarkable streak of 11 consecutive EuroBasket games with 25+ points.
Battling Germany in the Final
In the Final, Türkiye pushed defending champions Germany to the limit. Ataman's tactical plan and his team's fighting spirit kept the game alive until the last possessions. Only a veteran German squad, filled with proven winners, could withstand Türkiye's energy and discipline.
Final Score: Germany 88-83 Türkiye - A hard-fought battle until the final seconds
A New Beginning for Turkish Basketball
Ataman's Best Coach award, combined with Türkiye's silver medal, is more than just a success story—it is a roadmap for the future. With young talents gaining confidence and a visionary leader at the helm, Turkish basketball has entered a new era of belief and ambition.
Medisa SportsWorks Insight:
This EuroBasket was more than a tournament; it was a statement. Türkiye proved it can compete at the very top of European basketball and inspire the next generation with discipline, courage, and tactical brilliance.