Fragiskos Alvertis appeared on the airwaves of SBS Greek, where he spoke about the 7th “Pavlos Giannakopoulos” Tournament, which will take place in Australia. The European Ambassador of Panathinaikos AKTOR referred to the significance of this journey to Australia and the legacy left behind by Pavlos Giannakopoulos.

Below are his statements to SBS Greek:

On the significance of holding the 7th “Pavlos Giannakopoulos” Tournament in Australia: “This demonstrates the strength and incredible reach of this team—the team that Pavlos Giannakopoulos built—and every year we honor his contribution through this tournament. To be in Australia, where so many members of the Greek diaspora are waiting to see Panathinaikos, is a major occasion and a deeply moving experience for us. I believe we are the only team that organizes such tournaments. Last year, we held a fantastic tournament at the Panathenaic Stadium, a historic venue, which became a global event. This year we are coming to Australia, a vast country with a very large Greek community. It gives us special joy to elevate this tournament into a worldwide institution.

For me, it is a very wise initiative. People who until now could only watch Panathinaikos on television or hear about it on the radio will now have the chance to experience it up close and understand what it truly represents. In this way, we will be able to create new Panathinaikos supporters, even from afar. So let everyone be ready, because we are going to have a wonderful time. We are eagerly looking forward to seeing them in person”.

On his relationship with Pavlos Giannakopoulos: “I grew up alongside him! From the very first day I arrived until the very last, he was a paternal figure—not only to me, but to everyone. He gave everything for Panathinaikos and for Greek basketball. He was instrumental in turning this team into a legend across European courts. He left behind an immense legacy, which Mr. Dimitris Giannakopoulos continues and expands. He does everything possible so that the team continues to grow and so that his father’s name, Pavlos, remains forever etched in history”.

On passing on the club’s history to the younger generation: “The younger generation of Panathinaikos supporters is fortunate to see the team competing at the very highest level. Mr. Dimitris Giannakopoulos has created a unique arena in Europe. The atmosphere has now reached an entirely new dimension. This is proven by the hundreds—if not more—of children who come with their families to every game. Nowadays, APOA’s games are an event for the whole family. At the same time, the team continues to move forward as it should…”.

On which of the titles he won stands out most: “It would be unfair to single one out. Certainly, the first European title has a special place in our memory. But every title required tremendous effort and struggle. Each one carries its own particular weight and significance”.

On the new season: “We are destined to fight for every title and to claim victory every time we step onto the court. It is still very early, and a great deal of hard work and effort are required. The club has done its utmost to bring in the best players possible. Now, it remains for all the players to come together and work as one”.