The tension of the second clash between Valencia Basket and Panathinaikos did not end with the decisive basket. The already heated atmosphere during the game extended to the corridors and offices, marked by referee controversy, constant protests from the Greek team, and gestures from some of its members.
The 'taronja' club, upset by the events that occurred both during and after the match, decided to react publicly. Through an official statement, Valencia Basket strongly criticized the behavior of the Panathinaikos president and announced that it would file a formal complaint with the top continental competition.
“"Valencia Basket condemns the attitude of the Panathinaikos President, who exceeded all limits during the game by approaching the table with deplorable behavior, trying to influence and berate the referees, as reflected in the match report, also refusing to obey the instructions of security forces and generating unjustifiable tension."
In addition to the formal complaint, the Valencia Basket statement indicates that the Police have opened a report against the Panathinaikos president and some members of his delegation. The club expects the EuroLeague to severely punish this type of behavior, considering it recurrent and detrimental to the image of the sport.
The controversy escalated with a gesture from a Panathinaikos player, who was captured on video making farewell gestures and touching his private parts towards the stands, causing outrage among 'taronja' fans. Now, Valencia Basket must focus on the sporting aspect to attempt a historic comeback in Athens, while the disciplinary focus remains in the hands of the EuroLeague.
