Turkey head coach : "Philippines beating France is impossible"

Many Filipino fans are praying for a massive upset when the Philippine national men’s basketball team take on powerhouse France on the opening day of the FIBA Olympic Qualifying Tournament at Mall of Asia Arena.

Turkey coach Ergin Ataman, however, doesn’t want to keep Gilas Pilipinas fans’ hopes high.

“Philippines beating France is impossible for me,” he said in an interview with News5. “Against France I don’t give any chance to the Philippines.”


While declaring that Gilas Pilipinas can’t defeat France, the coach said he sees a tough battle between the Filipinos and New Zealand.

“Maybe against New Zealand they will fight for a good result,” he said, adding that whatever the outcome of the Filipinos’ games will be, what’s sure is that local fans will get to enjoy quality basketball.

“I think all of the Philippines, Manila people will enjoy in this tournament. There’s many NBA, European high players who will play in this tournament,” he said.

Ataman and Turkey’s 12 Giant Men arrived in Manila on Tuesday night, exactly a week before the Olympic qualifier.

The Turkish will meet the Filipinos in an exhibition game on Friday at Mall of Asia Arena.

Ataman’s Turkey is in Group A with Senegal and Canada, while Gilas Pilipinas, France and New Zealand will all slug out in Group B of the Olympic qualifier.

source: interaksyon.com