To get the victories we want - it 's our pleasure to play in a crowded stadium

The Greek national basketball team's preparations for its upcoming matches against Romania and Portugal in the World Cup qualifiers have taken center stage as players and coaches emphasize the importance of securing victories. Vasilis Tolias, one of Greece’s most prominent basketball figures, expressed his views during training sessions, highlighting the need for the national team to focus on winning these crucial games. Tolias emphasized that the team must take the two remaining matches in the first phase seriously, aiming to finish with a strong record of five wins and one loss before moving into the next round. He also noted the significance of having a full stadium filled with Greek fans, especially when playing at home, which he believes boosts morale and performance.

Tolias acknowledged the importance of rest after the previous matches ended on June 15th. He explained that the ten-day break was necessary for the players to recover physically and mentally from the intense final games they had played earlier. This period allowed them to reset their focus and prepare adequately for the upcoming challenges. Tolias also addressed the opportunity for Greek players to gain more experience and time within the national team. He stressed that each player should prioritize contributing to the team's goals rather than focusing solely on personal achievements or proving themselves due to limited playing time in their club teams.

In addition to Tolias' comments, the head coach of the national team, Vassilis Spanoulis, spoke about the difficulties faced by the team during this transitional period. He mentioned that players coming from long seasons require time to regain their form and readiness for competition. Despite these challenges, Spanoulis reiterated that the national team remains a great honor for every player, emphasizing the example set by captain Kostas Papapetrou. Spanoulis praised Papapetrou not just as a leader but also as an inspiration for younger players and his teammates alike.

Spanoulis also touched upon the broader issue of Greek players participating in the domestic league. He argued that it is essential for Greek athletes to play in the local leagues, where there are numerous clubs providing opportunities for growth and development. He encouraged young players to understand that competing domestically can better prepare them for international competitions. Furthermore, Spanoulis shared thoughts on his son, who recently won the MVP award in the youth championship. While acknowledging his son's progress, he reminded everyone that he is still very young and needs to remain humble, healthy, and hungry for success—qualities instilled in him by both his wife and himself.

As the national team continues its preparation, the focus remains on achieving the desired results in the upcoming matches. The team will face Romania on July 2nd, followed by a match against Portugal. These games are critical for securing a favorable position in the group standings. With the support of passionate fans and the determination of the players, the national team aims to deliver strong performances and secure the necessary victories to advance further in the qualification process. The combination of experienced leadership, youthful energy, and strategic planning positions the Greek team well for the challenges ahead, as they strive to make their mark on the global basketball stage.