By Stefan Acevski/ info@eurohoops.net
In the fourth match of Group C in the FIBA 2027 World Cup Qualifiers, Turkey defeated Serbia (94-86), whom they hosted in Istanbul, and achieved a perfect 4-0 record in the World Cup Qualifiers.
Head coach of the National Team, Ergin Ataman, talked to Turkish state television “TRT” after the match about the qualification to the main tournament.
“I congratulate the boys. Our National Team truly represents Turkey in the best way. We defeated Serbia, the most important representative of the European basketball tradition, twice in three days, which is a significant achievement. Today, they faced us with a more reinforced squad. Avramovic is a very important player, and they assigned Dangubic to defend against Tarik. Despite the defensive toughness, we managed to score 94 points. We did an excellent job, especially with Sehmus’ pressure in defense. We used Omer and Sertac well under the basket. It was a valuable victory, and there was a very nice atmosphere.”
Ataman emphasized that his team will fight for a medal at the World Championship and stated that Turkey is now at the top of Europe.
“Turkish basketball is now at the top of Europe. Hopefully, we will participate in the World Cup. We have won four out of four, and there are still matches ahead of us. When we participate in the tournament, we will fight for a medal. We need to celebrate this. I thank every player who came here, making sacrifices. Of course, especially Tarik, who was here despite his injury. Cedi, Sertac, Onuralp… I thank them all. Countries find it difficult to find players for these matches. Serbia coach Alimpijevic also complained about this issue. Turkish players and I are very devoted to the Turkish National Team. We come here with great enthusiasm. Let this victory be a gift to the Turkish people.”