The Greek dreamed of Jokic and invited him to Athens.

A Greek businessman has revealed he sent a serious offer to NBA star Nikola Jokić, hoping to bring the Serbian center to Athens with his club Panathinaikos. According to Dimitris Giannakopoulos, owner of Panathinaikos, the proposal was made directly to Jokić, who currently plays for the Denver Nuggets. Giannakopoulos stated that Jokić's potential would significantly strengthen the team, describing him as a dream addition to their roster. However, the offer was declined, though the player’s contract with the Nuggets runs until the end of the next season and could be extended into the 2027–28 campaign. The offer came after Giannakopoulos publicly expressed his desire to sign Jokić, calling him one of the best players in the world. He emphasized that while some might think he was joking, the proposal was genuine. His comments were shared during an interview with Euro Insiders, where he described the situation as a unique opportunity for both the player and his club. Despite the rejection, Giannakopoulos remains undeterred, stating they will wait for the next season before pursuing further action. Jokić’s representative, Miško Raznatović, confirmed the details of the offer, highlighting its significance. He noted that such a proposal had never been presented to Jokić in his three decades of working within the basketball industry. Raznatović explained that he immediately informed Giannakopoulos that the offer could not be considered, emphasizing the importance of Jokić’s current commitments. The player’s contract with the Nuggets includes a player option for the 2027–28 season, giving him flexibility should he choose to pursue opportunities elsewhere. Panathinaikos, based in Athens, competes in the Greek League and the EuroLeague. Last season, the club finished seventh in the EuroLeague standings, advancing to the playoffs but ultimately falling to Valencia. In the Greek domestic league, they secured second place, losing the final of the championship tournament to Olympiacos. This performance highlights the challenges faced by the team, making Jokić’s potential impact even more appealing. Jokić himself has enjoyed considerable success with the Nuggets. Since joining the franchise in 2015, he has become a key figure in the team’s success, winning three titles as the Most Valuable Player in the NBA. In the 2022–23 season, he led the Nuggets to their first championship, earning widespread recognition as one of the league’s top performers. Prior to his move to the United States, Jokić played for the Serbian club Mega Vizura, establishing himself as a formidable force in European basketball. While Panathinaikos continues to seek ways to attract top-tier talent, the focus remains on the future. With Jokić under contract through the 2027–28 season, any potential transfer would require careful negotiation. Giannakopoulos has already signaled his intent to remain engaged, ready to act when the time is right. For now, the situation remains open, with both parties keeping their options available.