Kostas Sloukas, in an extensive interview with “Eurohoops”, further explained why he left Olympiacos and donned the jersey of the Athens-based “Greens.”
This transfer was undoubtedly a major headline in the European basketball world, as there are very few individuals who have played for both Greek giants. Despite the negative sentiments expressed by Olympiacos fans about the Greek veteran, he revealed certain behind-the-scenes factors during this interview that ultimately led to his departure from the red-and-white team.
“After many discussions with people close to me, I truly believe I made the right decision. I can say I stand by my decisions and consider them to be correct. Of course, it’s nice when the best European teams show interest in your services.
It’s a sign that you’re performing at a high level, which motivates me. Many teams, which I don’t want to name now, inquired about my situation, but I didn’t want to make any decisions until I spoke with Olympiacos”, began Kostas Sloukas.
“They don’t know what happened behind the scenes…”
“The truth is what I’ve repeated many times. I think after the career I’ve had and at 33 years old as a mature adult, I can say that I’m not influenced by anyone, and I don’t have to listen to everyone. Everyone has a different opinion, including Olympiacos fans right now.
They don’t know what happened behind the scenes. Not everything that’s been written is true, but that’s why I have the support of friends, family, and all those people who have been there for me all these years. I’m proud that they stand by me regardless of the decisions I make”.
Why did he accept the offer from the “Greens”?
“Everything happened very quickly. The whole situation with Olympiacos also played a significant role. That’s something many people don’t know, but it’s important for those who need to know. Panathinaikos had a good approach, and the reason I came here is Coach Ergin Ataman, whom I greatly respect.
One word that describes me as both a person and a basketball player is motivation. In Panathinaikos, I saw the potential to achieve some great things, and I can point to those two reasons for coming to Athens”.
A new chapter
“It’s too early for any predictions. It might sound like an excuse, but we have 12 new players and a new coach. The Super Cup is the first trophy of the season, and the motivation is very high. The whole atmosphere around Panathinaikos is positive; everyone is eagerly awaiting the start of the season. There are expectations, and we are here to try to fulfill them”, said Kostas Sloukas.
About head coach Ataman
“He is a relaxed person off the court. When it comes to basketball, he has his philosophy. It speaks volumes that he took over at Efes and managed to turn the worst team in the EuroLeague into champions. He has good players now as well, but that says something about him, his character, and his basketball philosophy. All of this makes him unique and one of the best coaches in the history of European basketball.
Everyone has their philosophy and perception, and Coach Ataman follows his coaching instincts, routines, and has his own convictions”.
Kostas Sloukas and his role on the team
“There hasn’t been any discussion about adaptation periods or roles. None of us players have talked to the coach about it. If you’re at the level, you’ll compete successfully, and if you’re not, you won’t play. You never know how much playing time each player will get. The idea of me asking to play two minutes more or less, I find it funny to talk about such things”, concluded the Greek veteran.