By Dimitris Minaretzis/ info@eurohoops.net
Dimitris Giannakopoulos sat down with Serbian website Mozzart Sport.
The Panathinaikos Aktor owner opened up about his strong desire to bring Nikola Jokic to the team, Zeljko Obradovic’s return, and his past thoughts on investing in Partizan Mozzart Bet.
“I will tell you what I remember. I think it was during the Dusko Vujosevic era. Yes, Dusko Vujosevic was the coach back then. I apologize if I’m mistaken,” he mentioned.
“I remember a period when Partizan faced massive financial difficulties. This was about 10 or 15 years ago, probably in the late 2000s. There were some discussions regarding businesses and investments,” he continued. “As I’ve said, I love Serbia. It was just an idea. I was thinking about it.
Why didn’t it happen? Because I realized you can’t just buy the basketball team. You have to take over the swimming, water polo, and the entire multi-sports. And that is a completely different story.
It was an offer made to me. As I’ve told you, I love Partizan. Their fans create an atmosphere and arena environment closest to what we have at Panathinaikos. So yes, that was the idea.”
This is not the first time Giannakopoulos has opened up about his plans for Jokic.
“Look, as far as I’m concerned, I stopped watching the NBA the day Michael Jordan stopped dunking. Seriously. I only started watching again when Jokic went there,” he said, addressing the situation.
“I believe he is among the top 10 players of all time. I would love to see him in a Panathinaikos jersey, and I will do whatever I can to make it happen. Political issues are tricky, though, because I don’t think it’s up to the teams. I think the NBA might not allow such a massive star to leave,” added the 52-year-old Greek businessman.
The conversation shifted to the legendary Zeljko Obradovic and his historic return after a 14-year absence.
“Deep down, I always knew someday it would happen and that he would return here. It feels like destiny,” he stressed. “I’m incredibly happy it materialized this year, and I hope we achieve great results. That said, as I mentioned during the press conference, just having this season happen is already a major success for me.
Ultimately, history shows that winning a championship is about more than just how you build a roster. A lot of external factors come into play when winning a title at the end of the year. Good health, and sometimes a little bit of luck.
Of course, having Zeljko as your coach always gives you a distinct competitive edge, just like having a strong team does. While I don’t want to make concrete predictions right now, I fully believe Panathinaikos will be one of the main title contenders.”
He continued reflecting on his personal connection to the people of Serbia.
“Back when I was studying in London, my roommate happened to be Serbian. I’ve loved the country ever since and have built so many close friendships there. This connection goes back to a time long before basketball and long before coach Zeljko arrived.
I love Serbia, and I think the feeling is entirely mutual. I truly believe that. To be completely honest, when it comes to Serbian sports, I support Partizan.”
Giannakopoulos was then asked to pick one out of the long list of Serbian players who have left their mark on the Greens.
“Does he strictly have to be Serbian, or can I choose someone from the wider former Yugoslavia?
If so, it’s Stojan Vrankovic! He is forever, forever, and forever in my heart! Yes!”
He then touched upon players who famously wore both the Panathinaikos and Partizan jerseys, like Pekovic, Tomasevic, or Kecman.
“I would choose Tomasevic. He was a player who relied heavily on his basketball IQ. I always respect people and players who use their brains out on the court even more than their raw athletic abilities.”
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