The club «Anadolu Efes» announced roster changes immediately after the team, having lost to Beşiktaş in the decisive Game 5 of the Turkish Basketball Super League playoff semifinals, closed out its season. In the Istanbul derby, played on the black-and-white side’s court, the hosts prevailed 82-75, taking a 3-2 series lead and securing a place in the final.
The defeat marked the final chord of an inconsistent campaign for «Efes», whose play throughout the year was characterized by dramatic highs and lows. Just a few hours after the final buzzer, the club officially stated that it had terminated its contract with head coach Luca Banchi. The Italian tactician had been appointed on 7 January and spent a little more than five months at the helm, striving to restore the two-time EuroLeague champion’s trademark stability and up-tempo offensive rhythm.
The press service of the Turkish basketball powerhouse issued a concise communiqué emphasizing that the parting occurred in a spirit of mutual respect:
«As the basketball club “Anadolu Efes” we announce that our paths have parted with Mr. Luca Banchi. We thank him for the contribution he made to the development of the team and wish him success in the continuation of his coaching career.»
Thus, a new chapter opens for «Anadolu Efes»: management must swiftly identify a successor who will take charge in the upcoming season and attempt to restore the club’s lost championship ambitions. For Banchi, meanwhile, the decision offers an opportunity to focus on new projects, which he will, according to club officials, «undoubtedly undertake with the same professionalism and passion». The ongoing uncertainty surrounding future appointments only intensifies the interest of supporters awaiting further news from the club’s front office.
