By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
Just hours before Game 4 of the Greek finals, with the league’s judge expected to announce his verdict on the possible participation of Evan Fournier and Kendrick Nunn in the game, since they are under disciplinary investigation for incidents in Game 3, Panathinaikos issued one more official press release, thanking the fans in Game 3 for their behavior towards Fournier improper gesture.
During the day, Olympiacos issued several press releases announcing legal actions and asking for Panathinaikos’ punishment. Panathinaikos did the same, while coach Ergin Ataman also reacted on social media.
Panathinaikos finished the barrage of official announcements by accusing Fournier of intending to force the disruption of the game.
“The Panathinaikos AKTOR team would like to extend its warmest thanks to the team’s fans for the responsible attitude they demonstrated throughout yesterday’s match against Olympiacos.
Despite the continuous provocative actions of our opponents, culminating in the repeatedly shameful gestures of Evan Fournier, the fans of Panathinaikos showed the necessary self-restraint.
In fact, even those in the front rows who were the direct recipients of the athlete’s disgusting actions, who sought to interrupt the match, fortunately did not follow him down the path he chose.
The fans who were at OAKA for the third final confirmed with their general behavior what everyone admits: that they have created the best stadium in Europe and an atmosphere that always operates within the framework of fair play, as was proven once again at the moment of the serious injury of Olympiacos athlete, Mustafa Fal, when the entire stadium gave him a standing ovation.
Thank you very much for your presence and attitude!
Team, management, and fans, one fist!”