Dimitris Giannakopoulos, the influential and often controversial owner of Panathinaikos, has been handed a significant three-game suspension by an independent judge. The ruling, which takes into account his disciplinary record, stems from an incident where Giannakopoulos entered a restricted area near the scorer’s table during a match, causing considerable tension.
If his team advances to the Final Four, which coincidentally is being held at Athens’ OAKA Arena, Giannakopoulos will be barred from attending the semi-final games. A statement from the governing body highlighted:
- “While violations of regulated zones are considered minor offenses under Euroleague regulations, the judge also considered that Mr. Giannakopoulos’s actions contributed to creating a situation that could incite tension and violence. The independent judge also took into account Mr. Giannakopoulos’s repeat offenses.”
- “Euroleague Basketball strongly rejects any behavior that could generate violence and goes against the fundamental values defended by the League.”
- “Euroleague Basketball will submit to its shareholders a review of the relevant provisions of the Disciplinary Code governing this type of behavior, with a view to strengthening sanctions for the 2026-2027 season. This includes clear and specific sanctions for serious offenses, which could go up to a lifetime ban for players. The objective is to eradicate any behavior that harms the image of the League and its participating teams.”
In a separate disciplinary action, Monaco guard Mike James has been fined €6,000 and given a one-game suspended ban for his conduct after being ejected from a game against Olympiacos.
James acknowledged his actions with a post on X:
“I will no longer argue with the referees about decisions. It will be difficult for me, but even if the game was probably over, I penalized my team and didn’t make it easier for them. I have to do better. Back to the series…”
