By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
Panathinaikos owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos retracted his quotes about the referees of Game 3 which had caused a Euroleague inquiry, however new troubles and probably a punishment is coming for the Green boss.
As Euroleague sources confirmed to Eurohoops there’s a report by the referees in the score sheet of Game 4 about Giannakopoulos visiting in the half time their locker rooms and attacking them verbally. All the information concerning this incident have been already send to the independent disciplinary judge of the competition, according to the regular procedure.
As for the retraction, it’s the following: “Panathinaikos BC and its president Dimitris Giannakopoulos wishes to clear the following:
- The statement of 21st of Aprili, 2014, which was attributed to the president of Panathinaikos BC was the product of poor assessment and in no way reflects his opinion on the credibility of the competition. It was unfortunate, that it was attributed to him.
- There is an appreciation to the competition and there was never a thought or intention by the president of Panathinaikos BC to harm it.
- We are certain that in the future we will continue to have an excellent cooperation, given our common wish for the best future of the European Basketball”.
UPDATE: A total fine of 10.000 euros was imposed by the independent disciplinary judge to Dimitris Giannakopoulos who also is suspended by the first next season home game of Panathinaikos. The club was also fined with 10.001 euros for the invasion of its fans on the court after the end of Game 4 and also with a 1.500 for the use of the sound of sirens during Game 3. Also Olympiacos was fined with 11.000 euros for the use of firecrackers by its fans during Game 4.