Giannakopoulos, the rebel who conquered Europe

Few names in European basketball have generated as much impact and controversy as Dimitris. GiannakopoulosKnown for his passionate personality and constant conflicts. Euroleague, Giannakopoulos He has built a reputation as a rebel and a visionary, and this year his leadership and vision for radical change have Panathinaikos To the conquest of Euroleagueculminating a rebuilding process that has left an indelible mark on the EuroLeague’s recent history.

Dimitris GiannakopoulosBorn in 1974. Athensheir to a pharmaceutical dynasty and president of the group Viannex and the owner Panathinaikos BC. His management has been marked by intensity and passion both on and off the field since he took over the reins in 2012. Not only did he take over a team with a rich history, but he also fought relentlessly to keep the team among the elite of European basketball.

One of the most notable aspects of his administration has been its strained relationship with the state. EuroleagueHis uncle, Thanasis, was a top club leader and had already been involved in some public clashes, including throwing a banknote in the face of the tournament leader during the final four in Berlin in 2009. Dimitris He took his anti-establishment genes a step further by slamming the finances and administration of the tournament, accusing it of favoritism and poor management. His inflammatory comments and threats to remove Panathinaikos Fans and media of the tournament remain on high alert. In 2018, he was fined and suspended for comments deemed inappropriate towards the organization.

“I’m the guy who paid the 1.7 million euros fine, not the club fine or my personal fine, for the alleged insults to Instagram and the Euroleague,” he said last season, furious at the club’s lukewarm response. Euroleague In a brawl between Partisan and Madrid “How should I feel today, when the whole of European basketball is being mocked by the incitement that took place during the Real Madrid-Partizan match?” the president wrote in an Instagram story.

Despite these conflicts, or perhaps because of them, Giannakopoulos He has brought about major changes to the club, and this year his vision and bold moves in the transfer market have revitalised the team with the addition of star players and a top-notch coaching staff.

The most decisive move was a major adoption that redefined the system. Panathinaikos: Coach Elgin arrives Ataman and experienced point guard Kostas. Slowcas.

The dilemma for the bench was Pablo. Raso Or Elgin Ataman And with so many questions, Giannakopoulos The Turk he selected has finished his time at Anadolu Efes but has shown greater ambition and confidence following his recent success with the Istanbul club. Ataman He was signed with the mission of returning the team to its past glory, and with his tactical approach and ability to motivate players, the Turk brought a new playing philosophy that quickly transformed the team’s dynamics.

In addition to the ataman, Kostas Slokas As a team leader and captain, that was impressive. SlowcasKnown for his intelligence on the court and his ability to handle pressure moments, he became the focal point of the team. His leadership on and off the field provided the team with the stability and direction they needed to achieve their goals. As a point guard, his game vision and ability to execute key plays at key moments were fundamental in ensuring victory in this match. Euroleague.