The EOK now has a new president, Angelos Papanikolaou, following an emergency meeting of the Federation’s Board of Directors held earlier today, following the resignation of Vangelis Liolios before he was due to appear before an investigating judge and prosecutor to answer charges related to the “Basketgate” scandal.
At the same time, four members of the Board of Directors resigned; there were alternates, and the newly formed Board issued the following statement:
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
In detail: “The Board of Directors of the Hellenic Basketball Federation, following its reorganization and out of a sense of responsibility toward Greek basketball, the clubs, the female and male athletes, and the coaches, has made institutional stability and the continuation of the Federation’s work its top priority.
In this context, it undertakes the following commitments:
1. Uninterrupted continuation of events: Without clinging to positions or titles, the Board of Directors makes the smooth operation of the Federation and the uninterrupted conduct of all events its absolute priority. Already, despite the difficult circumstances, approximately 100 matches in the Men’s and Women’s National Championships have been held as scheduled, ensuring the continuity of competitive activity, which is a statutory purpose of the Federation.
2. Support for the National Teams: Special priority is given to the upcoming crucial matches of the Women’s National Teams (November 11, 14, and 17, 2026) and Men’s National Teams (November 26 and 29, 2026), as part of their efforts to qualify for the European and World Championships, respectively.
3. Initiatives Regarding Refereeing: The Board of Directors will seek to formulate specific proposals by November 15, 2026, regarding the necessary changes to officiating, in collaboration with the Hellenic Basketball Federation (ESAKE) and the relevant Ministry. At the same time, the assistance and expertise of the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) will be sought.
4. Convening of the General Assembly: Following the completion of the Men’s and Women’s National Teams’ competitive schedule, the Board of Directors will, within a reasonable timeframe, convene a General Assembly so that the Hellenic Basketball Federation’s highest statutory body may discuss developments and make decisions falling within its jurisdiction.
5. Respect for the Justice System and Ensuring Credibility: The EOK Board of Directors expresses its full confidence in the judiciary and is committed to cooperating with every competent authority, providing all necessary assistance to its work, with absolute respect for institutional procedures. At the same time, it clearly states that it will show zero tolerance for any lack of transparency or practices that undermine the prestige and credibility of Greek basketball. At its meeting tomorrow, the Board of Directors will take the necessary decisions regarding all individuals involved.
6. Substantial reforms to revitalize Greek basketball: The Board of Directors is committed to resolutely moving forward with the necessary institutional and organizational changes to ensure the healthy operation and credibility of Greek basketball, guided by the collective interest, unity, and the sustainable development of the sport.
The Board of Directors of the Hellenic Basketball Federation.”
*photo source: basket.gr
