By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Syros, Greece – During the Stoiximan AegeanBall Festival 2023, Nikola Milutinov took the stage to discuss his experience with Olympiacos, the team’s new dynamics, his relationship with Sasha Vezenkov, and their collaboration at the center position.
The Serbian big man returned to Piraeus after spending three years with CSKA Moscow.
“I feel very happy and excited. I always knew I wanted this to happen. I knew it, and I wanted it. I’m glad this moment has come, and I’m looking forward to new challenges,” Milutinov said.
He continued by talking about the new season and the changes in the Olympiacos roster. Two important players left the team, as Sasha Vezenkov moved to the NBA with the Sacramento Kings, while Kostas Sloukas signed for Olympiacos’ arch-rivals, Panathinaikos.
“The most painful moment for me was the departure of Vezenkov. Two key players are gone; we have to work hard. We want to take a step further.”
Milutinov supported Olympiacos during the Final Four in Kaunas.
“I watched the game with my friends, and it was painful. I told them that Olympiacos was going to win; I could feel it. It was a bad moment when Llull scored, but that’s his quality. Unfortunately, that happened against Olympiacos.”
This time, he’ll have a chance to work with Moustapha Fall in the center position.
“I only have good things to say about him. He’s one of the best centers in Europe. I can learn a lot from him, and I look forward to working with him.”
The 28-year-old won the Greek championship in 2016 during his first stint in Piraeus.
“I hope I’m better than I was then; we’ll see next season. I hope to take another step in my game.”
In the end, Milutinov expressed his wish to play for Serbia at the upcoming 2023 FIBA World Cup.
“I want to be there and play for my country,” Nikola Milutinov concluded.