A symbolic location for the Panathinaikos family
Dimitris Giannakopoulos chose a place with particular significance to host a dinner for the entire Panathinaikos AKTOR organization.
During his speech, the club’s owner wished everyone happiness, health and success, while also expressing his hope that the 2026/27 season will end with major trophies for the Greens.
“We chose this place because the people who were here three years ago understand why. At Panathinaikos, we have some… superstitions. Hopefully, at the end of the season we will have the big trophy,” Giannakopoulos said.
“This is a family”
Giannakopoulos highlighted the presence of several figures who have returned to Panathinaikos, particularly Željko Obradović, as well as Mike Batiste and Dimitris Diamantidis.
“It is wonderful to see such a big organization. I see people like coach Željko, Fragi, Dimitris, Mike, Giorgos, Michalis. This is a family.”
According to Giannakopoulos, the family atmosphere has always been one of the most important ingredients of Panathinaikos.
“Throughout the years, Panathinaikos’ biggest ingredient has been the good atmosphere, love and respect between everyone. Everyone, from the top to the bottom of the pyramid.”
“My father and my uncle, together with Željko, created something that was more than a family. Hopefully, at the end of this season, we will have it again.”
“We are not just a huge basketball club anymore”
The Panathinaikos owner also emphasized the growth of the organization away from the basketball court.
“In recent years, we are not simply a huge basketball club, but a huge organization. In my eyes, we have the greatest talent on the court, and outside of it that is a given with Željko Obradović.”
Giannakopoulos also praised the work being done across the club’s different departments, including social media, marketing, sales and sponsorships.
“We have a fantastic team in social media, marketing, sales and sponsorships. I was looking at the numbers and we have increases of up to 600%.”
“Big companies are waiting in line to become our sponsors, while our fans sell out games within a few minutes.”
The goal is more than just winning trophies
Giannakopoulos explained that the ultimate goal is not only to see Panathinaikos win trophies, but also to provide supporters with an excellent overall experience.
“At the end of the year, I would like to hear that all our fans are happy, not only because of the cups and the victories. Satisfaction also comes from the experience and hospitality at the arena — from the parking, the food, the chefs, and of course everything that happens in front of the camera, including the basketball we will play.”
“If everyone gives 100%, I am happy”
As owner, Giannakopoulos made it clear that his main demand from everyone involved with Panathinaikos is maximum commitment.
“I want to see everyone giving 100%. If everyone gives 100%, I am happy.”
He admitted that seeing trophies on the famous table at his home in Sounio would be a special way to celebrate the end of the season.
“But for me, this year we have already succeeded. What we have built, with all the symbols of Panathinaikos, is that we have rebuilt this family.”
“With these professionals everywhere, we have already succeeded. Half the success is already here.”
“Respect each other and fight for every ball”
Giannakopoulos concluded by putting the responsibility in the hands of everyone within the organization.
“Everyone wants to see us play good basketball. It is in your hands. Respect each other, fight for every ball and, if we are also a little lucky, at the end of the year we will have the trophies.”
“I wish you all happiness, love and health once again. My door is open to all of you. Let’s have a good season. All the best to everyone!”
News via Sport24.
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