http://www.fibaeurope.com/cid_KNce8jInH7Qj1EsyH5rjn2.compID_BYg5Rb55Jw-G5I3MZ6JB01.coid_j6UVgQkoJssKm-LMbehSs2.articleMode_on.html // 11 January 2008
Ibrahim Kutluay has been a popular player at every stop in his long career.
The Turkey international, who is best known for his clutch shooting, has played in his homeland, and also competed in Greece and for a brief time with the Seattle Supersonics in the NBA.
He recently returned to Greece to play for PAOK and made his debut this week in the EuroCup against Samara.
PAOK led for much of the game but lost for the third time in Qualifying Round Group A to CSK-VVS Samara.
Nevertheless, Kutluay, who turned 34 on January 7, was upbeat after the game in which he had made four three-pointers and scored 16 points.
"I felt excited playing for PAOK for the first time, although I would have preferred if my start with the team was accompanied by a win against Samara," he said on PAOK's website.
"But the team does have potential and it showed it. I'm pretty sure we are headed for happier times in the Greek league but also for in for a better showing in the remaining games in the FIBA EuroCup."
In Greece, PAOK had been at the bottom but have climbed to 11th in the standings, winning their last game at high-flying Panellionios 70-66.
"It's true that what really matters to us right now is winning in the league and the game against AGOR on Saturday is of pivotal importance," he said.
"I was nervous at the start (against Samara) as this was my first competitive game in almost a month.
"As time passed, I started adjusting myself to the game and feeling better and my new teammates and the fans' applause helped a lot."
Ibo has always had a great relationship with the fans, which is one reason why PAOK have welcomed the Turkish great to the club with open arms.
"Basketball is so much better when there are all these great people around you," he said.
Kutluay had been at Fenerbahce Ulker, but he decided to leave at the start of the month.
By playing four more months abroad, he will complete a total time of three years playing outside of Turkey and he will be able to complete his military service in only one month.
PAOK fans are just happy he has traveled to Greece to give them a helping hand.
"I'm glad that the fans cheered for me, but I and my teammates, we would like to see even more people showing up for the future home games.
“Basketball is so much better when there are all these great people around you „
Ibrahim Kutluay
