The President of Panathinaikos BC AKTOR, Mr. Vassilis Parthenopoulos, was a guest on the Australian radio station “Rythmos Greek Digital Radio,” where he spoke about the club’s upcoming trip to Oceania this September for the 7th Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament.

Mr. Parthenopoulos spoke with Alekos Katsifaras and Nikos Komninakis about Panathinaikos AKTOR’s plans in Australia, as well as what made Pavlos Giannakopoulos such a unique figure—ultimately transforming him into the most influential figure in the club’s history.

On how Australia was selected as the host for the 7th Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament:
“No one can dispute the legacy of major clubs, but in recent years Panathinaikos has grown immensely, both domestically and internationally. Dimitris Giannakopoulos assumed the reins from his father and has continued—if not exceeded—his efforts. We are on a very positive path. One of the primary reasons we chose Australia was because of the Greek diaspora and the large Hellenic community there. Most important of all was the Greek community of Australia, our compatriots who live so far away from us.

We decided to take on the challenge of making this trip—this demanding trip. Anyone familiar with organizing such events knows the immense logistical weight and risks involved. Nevertheless, we chose it in order to honor the late Pavlos Giannakopoulos, and we will be there with you. The first group departs on September 13, and the second group will follow on September 16, which will also include the players returning from national team duties.”

On who Pavlos Giannakopoulos was:
“I personally experienced him during my time in football, when I served as General Director of Panathinaikos FC. We went through many things together during the multi-shareholder era, if you recall.

He was a man of clarity, directness, and integrity. His approach to sports—and life in general—was admirable. He was truly an exceptional person. I know this even from his so-called ‘rivals,’ because everyone respected him, whether they supported Olympiacos, AEK, or PAOK. They all held the same respect for Pavlos.

He was a remarkable gentleman and a devoted family man. His wife, Despina, stood by him all those years. Even today, she continues to attend games and often travels with us, bringing with her the spirit and presence of Pavlos.

The legacy of Panathinaikos continues in a demanding environment, along a challenging path in the EuroLeague. There are many games and a high number of double-game weeks, but I believe we are well-positioned to succeed.”

On the atmosphere at OAKA:
“The NBA is undoubtedly a major force in global basketball, but one must not overlook the culture of European basketball—especially in Greece, the Balkans, Serbia, and Israel—where passion and intensity are expressed in a truly unique way.

I don’t believe such an atmosphere has ever been experienced in an NBA game. It’s a completely different feeling—particularly for foreign players who come from the NBA and witness the fans’ transformation, the energy and passion in the air.

Many have told us they’ve never encountered anything like it before. Naturally, that kind of atmosphere fuels the players in such games.”

On Panathinaikos AKTOR’s presence in Australia:
“The entire team will be there—players, coaching staff, management. Everyone is looking forward to it and sees it as a truly unique experience. From the conversations I’ve had with the players, it’s something they’re genuinely excited about. Many of them have never been to Australia, and they view this as an exciting new adventure.”

On the collaboration with the NBL for the 7th Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament:
“I must say, even I was pleasantly surprised by the exceptional collaboration with Mr. Larry Kestelman’s remarkable NBL team. We encountered no procedural issues whatsoever. The cooperation has been flawless.

They are a fantastic group of people—clear-minded, passionate about the sport. It honestly felt like being in Greece. They are extremely well-organized and incredibly hospitable. When I visited two months ago for the official announcement, I felt right at home.

It’s also worth noting that just two weeks ago, I hosted Australia’s Ambassador, Ms. Alison Duncan, for a tour of OAKA, along with the President of the Greek Community, Mr. Bill Papastergiadis.

I want to take a moment to highlight Bill—an exceptional individual and a true Greek patriot—who has greatly supported our efforts to organize various events and engage the Greek community in this initiative. He, too, experienced the OAKA atmosphere, with our team captain, Kostas Sloukas, present.

We unveiled the special jersey our players will wear, which features the Australian emblem.

Additionally, I must mention the excellent cooperation and support we’ve received from the team at Agapi Care—Mr. Alex Panagiotopoulos and Ms. Mary Gakopoulos. Together, we are organizing this event to give back to the Greek community and leave them with a memorable experience of Greece and of Panathinaikos.

We’re also in continuous communication with the Consul General, Ms. Dimitra Georgantzoglou, who has been a tremendous source of support. Whatever challenges may arise, she’s right beside us to ensure this event runs smoothly.”