By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Syros, Greece – The Stoiximan AegeanBall Festival 2023 returned to Syros for the fifth year and welcomed distinguished guests. One of them was Ioannis Papapetrou, who was unable to compete on Sunday (9/7) due to a shoulder problem.
The 29-year-old Greek forward had spent the first season of his professional career abroad with Partizan and expressed his joy at being back home.
“I missed Greece. I had three years to come to the event, and I am very happy to be here,” Papapetrou said to COSMOTE TV.
Kostas Sloukas made the decision to move from Olympiacos to Panathinaikos, a move that Papapetrou had already made in 2018.
“No one expected this from Sloukas. It is a professional decision, and I can understand it more than anyone. He has proven himself and has already given a lot, with more to come. It’s his decision, and it deserves respect. I wish him good health and all the best.”
He also commented on his future plans after a season abroad.
“A lot has been said about where I will continue, but I believe not all of it is true. For now, I’m enjoying my vacation. I haven’t analyzed it too much; everything is open. I haven’t made a decision yet, and we’ll see how things go.”
Papapetrou compared Serbian and Greek fans.
“Sports fans in Serbia and Greece have similar behavior; they show their passion. In Serbia, things might get worse on the field, but they are better outside. There is enmity only on the pitch.”
During his time in Belgrade, he had the opportunity to work with the most decorated European coach, Zeljko Obradovic.
“Obradovic is the best of all, an incredible person. It’s great to work with him; every training session is a real school. His demanding nature and his drive to bring out the best in you are part of sports, not just basketball. His mentality is his greatest legacy.”
His former teammate from Partizan, Mathias Lessort, recently joined Panathinaikos.
“Lessort is rightfully where he is; he always gives 100%. He excels in both defense and attack and throughout his career, he continues to improve every year. He has a lot to offer.”
Papapetrou hopes to recover soon and be able to help the Greek national team this summer at the 2023 FIBA World Cup.
“I have a shoulder issue, so we’ll see how it goes. I hope to be healthy because playing for the National Team is a special feeling,” Ioannis Papapetrou concluded.
Previously, Nikola Milutinov spoke about rejoining Olympiacos, Sasha Vezenkov leaving, and much more, while Mathias Lessort spoke about signing with Panathinaikos, new teammate Kostas Sloukas, coach Ergin Ataman…