Turkish basketball player Enes Kanter, currently in Greece for the launch of his book 'In the Name of Freedom', spoke about the possibility of joining Panathinaikos. During the event, reporters asked him about his potential engagement with the team, to which Kanter firmly stated that he would not attend any games of the club as long as Ergin Ataman is the coach. He cited his major disagreement with Ataman, particularly regarding the coach's support for Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan, with whom Kanter has serious political differences and is openly at odds.

Kanter's remarks highlight the broader tensions within the sporting world that can intersect with political sentiments and national identity. As a prominent athlete, he has been vocal about his criticisms against Erdoğan's government, advocating for democracy and freedom of expression. His refusal to play for Panathinaikos under Ataman indicates the personal and professional boundaries Kanter is willing to uphold, emphasizing his commitment to his political stance.

This situation raises questions about the influence of personal beliefs on sports careers and team dynamics. Athletes' political views often play a significant role in their public personas, and Kanter's case is a clear example of how political disagreements can affect professional opportunities. As the landscape of professional sports continues to evolve, the intersection of politics and athletics remains a critical conversation.