Kalambokis: “This generation is the hope for the country and must understand that”

Proud of his players and their effort, he said Giannis Kalambokis after the victory – qualification of the National Children’s team in his semi-finals Eurobasket U16which takes place in Heraklion, Crete. The Greek team Turkey prevailed 75-65.

“The time we have between one match and another is so short, that where you want to feel satisfaction and share the joy with your players, with the world, you cannot. But we keep these feelings and we will move forward with them. This team deserves it and does it through an effort that the kids are happy about, enjoy, and I think that’s the secret. We also tell them that they should feel proud, be happy, that they represent the Greek National Team, which has defeated very good opponents, with a rich background and a way of preparing all year for this tournament. That is why we as their coaches are also very proud. It is very important that each time a different player stands out in each of our matches. This shows that the children understand who is on a good day and make sure to show him off. This shows that they understand the power of company and this is good for their whole lives, for all children. This is how teams are built, through joys and sorrows, it’s not easy, but I believe we are making important steps towards it».

Regarding the next opponent, in the semi-final, Spain, he commented: “They are a top team, like all the ones we met in the “8”, and here I want to emphasize that all the teams in our group advanced to this stage. The Spanish are very good, they have proven over time that they get better as the tournaments go on. We have one day to prepare properly. I’ll say it again: We want the kids to be happy, to be smiling after every game, and what happens on the court and on the bench is the biggest reward. From tomorrow we will deal with Spain, today let them enjoy it».

As for the optimism spread by these children for the future, he said: “Yesterday, after our victory over Poland, I told them that they are the hope, in an environment and in a society that I don’t want to use the stage to make characterizations, but they are an oasis to change the situation. Let it be basketball, let it be sports that will give the opportunity, through these youth, for the country to have hope and optimism. The children, this generation, must understand that we can also be there to help them. It is very important that through this process the children fix their mentality. Their potential must be turned into a skill. This can only be done with the right mindset and we are happy that at least this team, this National Team is taking important steps towards this».