Panathinaikos is getting into the swing of friendly matches, and following the tournament in Rhodes, the next event on the European basketball calendar is the 8th “Pavlos Giannakopoulos” Tournament.
In an effort to boost morale and foster a spirit of unity, Dimitris Giannakopoulos hosted a luncheon for the players, coaches, and the entire team staff.
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
During the splendid event at an estate in Attica, the influential figure of Panathinaikos BC delivered a speech to welcome the new players and lay out the foundations and goals for the upcoming season, marking the return of Zeljko Obradović to the team’s bench.
“First of all, let me wish everyone—you and your families—happiness, love, and good health. I wish you all the best on a personal and professional level, and the same goes for Panathinaikos. We chose this place, and the people who were here three years ago understand why. At Panathinaikos, we have certain… superstitions; I hope the end of the season finds us with the big trophy.
There are so many people here today—not even at VIANEX, at one of the factories, are there this many. It’s wonderful to see such a large organization. I see people like Coach Zeljko, Frangi, Dimitris, Mike, Giorgos, and Michalis. This is a family. Over the years, Panathinaikos’s greatest strength has been the great atmosphere, the love, and the respect among everyone. Among everyone, from the top to the bottom of the pyramid. My father and my uncle, along with Zeljko, had created something more than a family. I hope that by the end of this season, we’ll have that again.
In recent years, we’ve been more than just a huge basketball club—we’ve been a massive organization. In my eyes, we have the most talent on the court—and with Zeljko Obradović, that goes without saying. We have a fantastic team in social media, marketing, sales, and sponsorships. I’ve been looking at the numbers—we’ve seen an increase of up to 600%. Major companies are lining up to become our sponsors, and our fans sell out games in just a few minutes. By the end of the year, I’d like to hear that all our fans are happy—not just because of the trophies and victories. Satisfaction also comes from the experience and hospitality at the arena—from the parking, the food, and the chefs. And, of course, everything that happens in front of the camera—the basketball we’ll be playing.
As the owner, I want to see everyone giving 100%. If everyone gives 100%, I’m happy. It’s always nice to see trophies on that famous little table we have at Sounion, and it’ll be great to celebrate at the end of the season. But for me, we’ve already succeeded this year. What we’ve built—with all the symbols of Panathinaikos—we’ve rebuilt this family! And with these professionals all around us, we’ve already succeeded. Half the success is already here! Everyone wants to see us play good basketball. It’s up to you. Respect one another, fight for every ball, and if we’re even a little lucky, by the end of the season we’ll have the trophies too. Once again, I wish you all happiness, love, and good health; my door is open to all of you. Let’s have a great season. All the best to everyone!”
*photo source: Panathinaikos BC
