By Bugra Uzar / info@eurohoops.net
Ergin Ataman spoke to the press after Efes took a 2-0 lead against Galatasaray in the Turkish League playoffs about Shane Larkin and Ekpe Udoh.
Talking about Shane Larkin’s presence in the team for next season, coach Ataman mentioned: “I said this after the EuroLeague final: This team will probably remain for the -maybe 1-2 additions- for same goals. I believe that Larkin will play for Anadolu Efes as long if he won’t get a big offer from the NBA for next year. He gets really well with his teammates. He loves Istanbul so much. His relationship with the coaching staff is great. He enjoys the basketball that we are playing but if there is a big offer from the NBA that makes him first or second guard, then he will leave. Then we will find new Larkin. There is nothing to do.”
He also referred to Ekpe Udoh’s case, as the former EuroLeague champion with Fenerbahce is considering big multiyear offers to return in Europe while he is currently in Istanbul. The Turkish coach confirmed Udoh is a target for his team and remains hopeful. “Transfer is secret. Let’s hope for the best”, concluded Ataman.