By Rigas Dardalis/ dardalis@eurohoops.net
Last time they played in Euroleague, they didn’t make in TOP-16, but they impressed Europe with big wins over Real Madrid in Elliniko, or against Efes in Istanbul. From 2008 that Panionios finished 3rd in Greek A1, until 2012 that they achieved it again, many things has changed, but one has been the same. Elias Lianos (photo) is still the (same reliable and passionate) president, something that gives team of Nea Smyrni a chance of playing in the preliminaries rounds of Euroleague next season.
Jordi Bertomeou has great respect for Panionios’ owner and a conversation between the two may take place next week. There has been already a conversation with Kostas Rigas, who left a widow open for Panionios, even though he clarified that there are not many chances. Some chances, though, do exist, especially from the moment that there is ranking for every country, based on the achievements of each teams. And this year with Greek basketball having two representatives in Euroleague Final Four and also having the last two champions, Greece for sure will be high in this ranking.
If Panionios makes it to the preliminaries, they will try to use as a home court beautiful arena used in the 2004 Olympiacos for Tae Kwon Do in Palaio Faliro, since Elliniko is not available any more. If they play in Eurocup, then they will stay in Nea Smyrni, as long as they make some improvements inside the small city owned gym.