Full Breakdown
Elevator Accident Injures Five Ganja BK Players Ahead of EuroCup Match; FIBA Declines Postponement
By Drooid · · How we work
Incident Overview
The night before their Group C opening game in the FIBA Europe Cup, an elevator in the Istanbul hotel where the Azerbaijani club Ganja BK was staying fell three floors. Coach Martin Knezevic, who leads Ganja BK, reported that five of his players sustained injuries in the crash. The incident occurred in the hotel that the opposing Turkish side, Esenler Erokspor, had arranged for the visitors.
Game Outcome and Player Availability
Despite the injuries, Ganja BK took the court against Esenler Erokspor. Only ten of the twelve rostered players appeared; two remained on the bench for the entire match. Aydin Ibrahimov logged just 2 minutes 9 seconds of playing time. Ganja BK was defeated 92–63. Scoring leaders for the Azerbaijani side were Kobe McGee with 16 points, Latavious Mitchell with 13 points and seven rebounds, and Brandon Ellington, who posted a double-double of 11 points and 10 rebounds.
Coach Knezevic’s Response
Following the loss, Coach Knezevic used his Facebook account to describe the circumstances. He emphasized that the injuries were not life-changing but noted that the team’s performance was unsurprising given the “cheap hotel” situation. He also criticized FIBA for ignoring Ganja BK’s request to postpone the game, describing the governing body’s decision as dismissive.
FIBA’s Decision
The International Basketball Federation (FIBA) declined Ganja BK’s appeal to delay the contest. No public statement from FIBA was provided in the sources; the refusal is reported solely through the coach’s account.
Implications for the Tournament
The incident reduced Ganja BK’s competitive depth in their opening match, contributing to a decisive loss that may affect their standing in Group C. The episode also raises questions about logistical responsibilities for visiting teams and the flexibility of tournament organizers when unforeseen emergencies occur.