Papanikolaou: A full stadium and Greek flags will boost Greece in EuroBasket qualifiers

Greece vs. Great Britain in EuroBasket 2025 Qualifiers
The Greek National Basketball Team trained on Saturday at PAOK Sports Arena in Thessaloniki, preparing for Sunday’s game against Great Britain (6:30 PM) in the EuroBasket 2025 qualifiers. Joining the team were Kostas Papanikolaou, Giannoulis Larentzakis, and Panagiotis Kalaitzakis.

Statements from Players and Coaches

Kostas Papanikolaou:
“The team is ready. The guys put up a tough fight in England. We reviewed some details on video that needed improvement and worked on them in training. We have many young players full of enthusiasm, and it’s very important that we will play in a packed stadium.

We thank the people of Thessaloniki for their support. Just as the city needed this, so did the National Team. It’s always significant to play in a stadium filled with blue and white flags. We want to secure victory to virtually ensure qualification for EuroBasket.

The most important thing is to stay focused and maintain high intensity throughout the game. These are the key elements we’ve been focusing on. We must sustain our energy for as long as possible, if not for the full 40 minutes. A packed stadium, with beautiful images of children and Greek flags, can make you forget your fatigue and everything else.”

Kostas Charalampidis:
“The players are eager for the game. We didn’t get the result we wanted in London. We’ve reviewed our defensive lapses, and I believe we’ll be fully prepared on Sunday.

Our mistakes were both offensive and defensive. We didn’t execute some plays as planned, didn’t read the game well, and lacked quick reactions and proper decision-making. We let ourselves down because we played excellently for 17 minutes but didn’t maintain that level.

The first half in London serves as a guide for how we want to play. Three players have joined us to strengthen the team. Congratulations to all the players for being here, especially those who joined despite their commitments in the EuroLeague.

Representing the National Team is an honor, and we’re all here to give our best. These players are accustomed to operating under these conditions and are doing everything humanly possible to be ready.”

Neoklis Avdalas:
“We need consistency for 40 minutes because, in London, we only played well in the first half. We have to change that and maintain energy throughout the game. Winning is crucial.

It’s amazing that the fans will fill the stadium; their support is vital, and we thank them. We’re thrilled that three experienced players have joined us, and they will undoubtedly help. Whoever steps onto the court will give 100%.

Wearing this jersey is a heavy responsibility, but for me, it’s an honor and a joy. My mindset is to contribute however I can to the National Team. Whether I play one or two minutes, I will give my all.”

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