Such as Panathinaikos Aktor and Australia League have announced today (12/05) in the early morning“Pavlos Giannakopoulos” will take place at Australiafrom September 18 to 22 and in two cities, Melbourne and Sydney.
In detail the relevant press release:
“The” Pavlos Giannakopoulos “tournament, which will be held for the seventh year this year in memory of Panathinaikos’ flagship leader, is moving to Australia for the first time!
The official unveiling of the tournament took place on Monday, May 12 in Australia at a brilliant event, with the NBL (Australian National League), Panathinaikos Aktor and Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade to declare the official launch of the great event.
Panathinaikos Aktor and Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade will travel to Australia in September for an experience that basketball friends will never forget, honoring the memory of our club’s top factor.
Pavlos Giannakopoulos, with his morality and sporting spirit, honored Greek sport and managed to change the history of our team, making it the most successful in Europe.
During the Panathinaikos presidency, he brought to the team top names in the sport from Greece, Europe and the whole world, creating an enviable trophy with 6 European Championships, 13 Greek Championships, 9 Greek Cups and 1 Intercontinental Cup. They all had enormous respect and love for Pavlos Giannakopoulos, as he first served as a “father” and then as president.
Panathinaikos Aktor and Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade will face Melbourne in John Cain Arena for the first time on Thursday, September 18 Sydney.
NBL manager Nikola Milivojevic said: “This is a great time for NBL and basketball fans in Australia. Participating two of Europe’s largest teams in a tournament of this level, along with two of Australia’s top clubs, Sydney Kings and Adelaide 36ers, reflects not only the ever -increasing worldwide reputation of the NBL, but also the growing passion and interest of Australians.
This unique event enhances the close relationship that has developed between the NBL and the two Euroleague clubs, Panathinaikos Aktor and Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade. The hospitality of the tournament Pavlos Giannakopoulos is a huge honor and we look forward to the fans. ”
NBL owner and executive director Larry Cestelman said: “We are extremely excited that the Kings and the 36ers will represent the NBL against two Euroleague” forces “. We would like to thank Panathinaikos Aktor and Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade for their friendship and support, and for their confidence in NBL as partners for the 7th edition of this historic tournament. ”
Last year’s event was held at the flagship Panathenaic Stadium in Athens and this year promises equally emotions.
For his part, the President of the Panathinaikos Aktor, Mr. Vassilis Parthenopoulos, said:
“With great pride we convey the legacy of Panathinaikos and the memory of Pavlos Giannakopoulos to Australia.
The launch of this tournament is an important milestone in the global resonance of our club, reflecting our commitment to honor a visionary who formed the modern identity of Panathinaikos.
Through this great event, we confirm our dedication to strengthening our global presence and promoting the values ​​of excellence, integrity and athletic tradition that Pavlos Giannakopoulos passionately defended.
We express our sincere thanks to the NBL for the warm hospitality and cooperation. Their support has been catalytic for this tournament and for the creation of an environment in which international basketball can bloom. It is also our honor to work with our fine friends from Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade and to have President Mijilovic with us.
Their participation gives prestige and value to the tournament and reflects mutual respect between two great clubs with long history.
This initiative also bears a deep cultural symbolism. It is an opportunity for a meaningful contact with the Greek Diaspora in Australia, a community with which we are deeply connected. Through the global language of sport, we seek to build bridges, cultivate unity and celebrate the common values ​​that unite people beyond borders and continents.
Panathinaikos has always been more than just a sports club. It is a symbol of pride, identity and unity.
The club was acquired by the Giannakopoulos family in 1987 and under the guidance of Pavlos Giannakopoulos, Panathinaikos became one of the most successful teams in Europe’s history, winning six Euroleague titles and the Intercontinental Cup in 1996.
His strategic vision, his tireless dedication and his deep emotional connection to the club brought stars to the group such as Dominic Wilkins, Nikos Galis and of course Francis Albertis, Panathinaikos leader for many years. His jersey with No4 has retired in his honor. Famous for his leadership and decisive three -pointers, today honors us as a Panathinaikos ambassador.
His offer led to the winning 5 European titles, 11 championships and 8 cups, raising the prestige of Greek basketball worldwide.
Pavlos Giannakopoulos never treated Panathinaikos as a simple business. For him it was a life mission and both the players and the fans saw him as a father figure.
Through the “Pavlos Giannakopoulos” tournament, we do not just remember him, we honor everything he was. This annual tournament is a bridge between generations. It connects the past with the present and inspires the future. It is a meeting of the champions, a basketball celebration. This year’s September tournament is its 7th edition.
The decision to make it in Australia was not only geographical, but emotional, historical, visionary and tribute to the Greek diaspora. At the same time, it is a tribute to the dedication of Panathinaikos’ friends for their continued support.
Finally, dear friends, I feel the need to share with you that I grew up, raised and educated in Australia. I feel deeply proud to be an Australian citizen and I am forever grateful in this country for everything he has offered me. ”
Subsequently, the president of Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade, bone Mijilovic, said: “We are extremely happy for the opportunity to present our club and European basketball to Australia’s fans.
Together with Panathinaikos, our goal is to expand our community and to strengthen the fans’ bases in Australia. The relationship between Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade and Australian fans is already strong, with players such as Dante Emm, Alex Marits, Nate Jaguai and Jack Landal having worn our jersey from time to time.
We look forward to getting to know basketball friends in Australia and show them who we are, and we also expect to meet our compatriots and those who are of Serbian descent, hoping to support us massively. “
Source: Sport Fm
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