Selcuk Ernak: We brought players we trust — Trabzonspor will go for every title
Season review, targets and the European decision
Selcuk Ernak reflected on a breakthrough season for Trabzonspor: a return to the top flight, a strong regular season that ended in sixth place and a playoff exit that left a bit of unfinished business. The club surprised many with its offense, but injuries late in the year — including a ruptured Achilles for captain Ismail Cem Ulusoy and a broken foot for starting center Angel Delgado — limited how far they could push.
Ernak said the board backed the team all season, giving the coach room to make changes when needed. He also downplayed talk about budget size, saying numbers don’t tell the whole story and that the team focuses on getting better every day rather than comparing payrolls.
After last season’s success the club chose to enter the FIBA Champions League. The coach explained that the board made the decision with an eye on finances and a step-by-step approach; competing in Europe is new for the club so starting in this competition made the most sense. Ernak also called the idea of NBA involvement in European basketball intriguing but said many details are still unclear and worth monitoring.
New signings, chemistry and style of play
This summer Trabzonspor noticeably strengthened the roster. The team added experienced scorers and versatile players — names that include Isaiah Canaan, Xavier Tillman and Shaquille Harrison — and plenty of domestic quality in players like Yigit Arslan, Tolga Gecim and Ridvan Oncel. Ernak emphasized he wanted players who fit the club’s character as much as its tactics.
Rather than relying on a single leader, the coach stressed that the new group brings multiple players who can lead on the court and keep things organized. That depth was a direct response to last season’s issues: without rotation options, tired players struggled to maintain defensive intensity. The new signings should help keep energy up and allow the team to defend at a higher level while preserving the fast-break offense that served them well.
On specific additions, Ernak explained why Xavier Tillman chose Trabzonspor after coming from the NBA: it was about minutes, development and the right role. Shaquille Harrison was highlighted for his athleticism and defense, especially as a connector in transition. Troy Caupain and other experienced guards were also mentioned as important both on the floor and socially — established relationships helped attract further recruits.
Looking ahead, the club’s domestic aim is clear: improve on last season’s finish. European ambitions will be set progressively — first trying to make it out of the initial rounds and then seeing how far they can go. Ernak acknowledged travel and scheduling from Trabzon will be a practical challenge in Europe, but he’s realistic and optimistic about building step-by-step progress.
On broader notes, Ernak said constant stoppages and heavy use of video review frustrate everyone, but he also called for better referee development so officials, players and coaches can grow together and the quality of the game improves.
In short, Ernak sounded confident: the club has improved its depth, brought in players who fit the needed roles and character, and will compete aggressively at home and in Europe.
