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Dimitris Giannakopoulos leadership at Panathinaikos BC

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2026-08-11 01:52 UTC → 2026-08-12 00:59 UTC · added ~~removed~~

Dimitris Giannakopoulos, a prominent figure at Panathinaikos BC, has addressed his leadership and the club's future in recent interviews. He highlighted the significant increase in the club's valuation, noting it has reached approximately half a billion euros. Giannakopoulos expressed strong support for coach Ergin Ataman, praising his professionalism and success in securing a European trophy. However, in a recent podcast interview with EuroInsiders, he described the decision to end their collaboration as a “difficult decision,” though he maintained that Ataman remains a great professional and a friend. He also spoke highly of Zeljko Obradovic, noting his unique ability to lead star-studded teams. Regarding basketball operations, Giannakopoulos reiterated that he does not personally select players, leaving those decisions to the coaching staff. He revealed a long-term ambition to sign NBA superstar Nikola Jokic, noting that a serious attempt to buy out the final year of Jokic's contract with the Denver Nuggets was rejected this year. He expressed confidence in revisiting this possibility next year when the player may have more flexibility. He also mentioned a past desire to have signed Milos Teodosic before the latter's retirement. Nikola Jokic’s longtime agent, Misko Raznatovic, has since confirmed the validity of the buyout attempt, stating, “What Giannakopoulos said is true.” Regarding his personal involvement, Giannakopoulos noted that his long-term future with the club remains uncertain. He predicted he will be watching games as a fan within five years, stating he does not wish to force the obligation of ownership onto his children. On a personal level, he revisited his 2020 health crisis involving multiple cardiac arrests, noting how it fundamentally altered his perspective on life. Additionally, he addressed the controversy regarding the removal of Dejan Bodiroga's banner from the OAKA arena, admitting it was a mistake and promising its immediate return.

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