By John Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Greek Federation president, former president of FIBA Europe George Vassilakopoulos confirmed to Greek outlet Sport24 that Rick Pitino was approached by the Federation for the pre-Olympic tournament head coaching job. He also discussed the opportunity for Greece to host a pre-Olympic tournament group and the potential National Team squad members for next summer.
“There have been a lot of talks, not only with Pitino but with other head coaches as well” said Vassilakopoulos, “I can’t add anything further at the moment, I am actually not allowed to comment on the matter.”
Asked if there is chance for direct negotiations between himself and the 67-year-old American head coach that made his way to Greece last year for Panathinaikos OPAP, he replied: “I will welcome the opportunity provided he wants to talk up close.”
Aside hiring a head coach for the pre-Olympic tournament, Greece is a candidate for hosting one of the groups in the summer. “We declared our bid, but are not within the financial guidelines set” he mentioned, “We presented the issue to the state one and a half months ago, but have received no reply.”
“We are in touch with all the players. Apart Giannis Antetokounmpo, we are in touch with Kostas Koufos, Tyler Dorsey, Naz Mitrou-Long and Zach Auguste as well” he added referring to the players that will potentially suit up for Greece next summer, “It is not about one single player, but all of them.”