Ergin Ataman: Ulker brought 120 supporters to Moscow

Ulker came to Moscow one day earlier than all the other Euroleague clubs. But the team had the first practice at USH CSKA only this evening. We decided to ask the head coach of the team Ergin Ataman the reason of such a decision and, of course, several more questions on the game.

- Our arrival on Monday has nothing in common with the game. We had a charter flight with the group of people from Ulker company. They arranged some kind of touristy tour for 120 employers of the company. They would visit the game also and after that we would return home once again with the charter.

In your opinion how the absence of David Andersen would effect the game?

- Surely, David is one of CSKA leaders. And for last two years we had difficulties trying to stop him. So his absence would make the game a bit easier for us but that does not mean CSKA would be an easy rival for us. We should put maximum effort in order to beat Moscovites.

But in your quote for the Euroleague.net you have mentioned that the game is not a target for your team. What is the reason?

- The key game for us is going to be the last one against Montepaschi. It would determine we or Italians would go to the Top 16. This is more important than to win in Moscow. But without any doubts it is attractive to win in here.

What do you think would be the key for the game tomorrow?

- The defense. In Istanbul CSKA was very aggressive and active in the defense. We could not stand it and that was the reason for such a loss. I guess this time we would try to answer with the same kind of defense ourselves.