Cyprus Times

FIRE' on Ataman Due to Shorts' Absence

Published January 22, 2026, 08:10
FIRE' on Ataman Due to Shorts' Absence

The French press is sharply criticizing Panathinaikos coach Ergin Ataman's decision not to play T.J. Shorts at all in the game against Baskonia. The website BeBasket directly links this decision to Ataman's statements after the game against PAOK, implying strong dissatisfaction with the American guard. It is noted that Shorts was left out of the squad for the first time this season, in a match where Kendrick Nunn was also absent. The article concludes that Ataman's decision was clearly targeted at Shorts, putting him in an increasingly difficult position within the team.