For millions of Greeks, their “blue and white”. Antetokounmpo Brothers and his Dorsey this is their team and they show it in the clearest way possible! In mid-August, when Athens was half away due to the holidays, fans’ interest in today’s (19.00) friendly match against Spain in OAKA it’s huge, to the point where it’s even expected to be sold out! Until yesterday, more than 11,000 tickets were pre-sold, a number that is no longer so easy to see even in the decisive games of the Euroleague, not to mention the first pre-season game of the team, which is now working hard to set foot on high peaks again! Of course, the magnificence of the world champion in Spain is an additional motivation for people to go to the stadium, but OAKA will be filled with the aura of Giannis Antetokounmpo and his teammates, in a moment that gives another loud response among the many that all annoyed those who called a storm of responses, directly questioning the Greek affiliation of athletes with black skin …

Although it is too early to talk about the “revelations” of the team that Dimitris Itoudis is still working on, today’s friendly meeting, the first since preparations began, is symbolic as it signals an organized effort at all levels for the “official sweetheart” to return the charm old days. And this is only indicated by the presence of a Greek freak, since the best (for many) basketball player in the world these days will again compete with the national team three years after his last appearance. His mere presence draws attention to our team and makes everyone consider it a favorite for the EuroBasket medal. This feeling will persist until the problem with Giorgos Papayannis is overcome. The “tower” of our team has serious problems with his hamstring, and he is still undergoing conservative treatment in order to keep the hope of participating in EuroBasket. Doctors will have a better picture in the coming days. Slukas will also not be here tonight, and D. Itoudis will “cut out” Alex Antetokounmpo, Tanulis, Netzipoglu, Mantzoukas, Tsalburis.