Vassilis Spanoulis opened up about his Monaco departure, Olympiacos’ EuroLeague triumph, Aris’ ambitious project and his goals with the Greek national team.
The Greek coach explained that factors beyond basketball influenced his decision to leave Monaco, while also sharing his thoughts on the challenges ahead with Aris and the future of Greek basketball in an interview with Novibet.
Vassilis Spanoulis explains Monaco exit
After leading Monaco to one of the strongest periods in club history, Spanoulis’ departure raised questions. The Greek coach explained that factors beyond basketball ultimately influenced his decision.
“In the first year, we had an incredible EuroLeague season (reaching the Final Four). In the second year, until January, we were playing excellent basketball and were second in the standings. We were considered one of the favorites. External factors, and not basketball-related ones, made me make that decision.”
Spanoulis added that he did not want to hide problems that were not related to basketball or his responsibilities as a coach.
“I couldn’t look the players in the eyes and lie about things that had nothing to do with basketball, in order to cover things that were not my responsibility. It exhausted me incredibly. We reached the point where we signed a player and he had to leave because of the ban (Corey Joseph). He was paying for his own hotel! These things do not represent me as a person. They were things beyond basketball. I don’t give up, I am a winner and I have proven that.”
Despite his exit, Spanoulis expressed gratitude toward Monaco for the opportunity.
“I thank Monaco for the opportunity they gave me, I am not ungrateful. They trusted me and gave me the chance to coach a great team and great players.”
Another reunion! 👀🔥
— Basketball Sphere (@BSphere_) July 11, 2026
With Mike James joining Anadolu Efes, he and Jordan Loyd (@mrjloyd) are set to reunite in the backcourt after their time together at Monaco. 🤝 pic.twitter.com/o6IqtiHbIK
Spanoulis praises Olympiacos after EuroLeague title
Vassilis Spanoulis also discussed Olympiacos’ EuroLeague success, praising the team coached by Georgios Bartzokas after they captured another European title.
“I believe that from a certain point onward, they were truly the best team, especially with the moves they made. They were a complete team with many options. They played very good basketball and I believe they deserved the trophy.”
Spanoulis also highlighted Real Madrid’s surprising approach in the Final Four but explained why Olympiacos deserved to lift the trophy.
“Real Madrid surprised me with the way they played. You wouldn’t expect them to play that kind of basketball in the final without big men, very fast, with confidence. Olympiacos played very well in difficult moments of the game, hit tough shots, and truly deserved the trophy.”
The Greek coach also praised Bartzokas’ philosophy and the way Olympiacos plays.
“Coach Bartzokas has his own philosophy. The way Olympiacos moves the ball is something every coach, both in basketball and football, wants to have. It is an excellent element that everyone wants in their team.”
Spanoulis explains Aris’ EuroLeague ambitions
Spanoulis also spoke about his new challenge with Aris, with the Thessaloniki club aiming to build a competitive project for the future.
“Aris is definitely a big project. It has great potential. It requires work, and I believe that with the support of the fans, they can achieve their goals in the future. There will also be difficult days; not everything happens overnight, which is why support is needed.”
He explained that Aris’ long-term ambitions include reaching the EuroLeague and competing at the highest level.
“Aris’ goal is to play in the EuroLeague and compete for playoff and perhaps even Final Four appearances at some point. Hopefully, they can also win a trophy, but everything has to be done the right way.”
OFFICIAL: Aris have announced Nenad Neno Dimitrijevic as their newest signing! 🟡⚫️
— Basketball Sphere (@BSphere_) July 1, 2026
The North Macedonian guard arrives in Greece after his stint with Bayern. 🤝 pic.twitter.com/IZo5tPoKpK
Spanoulis on Greece national team and the future of Greek basketball
Greek legend discussed the current state of Greek basketball and the national team’s ambitions.
“These are golden years for Greek basketball. It also received a huge boost from the bronze medal at last year’s EuroBasket (2025). We shouldn’t forget that, because in Greece we have a tendency to do so.”
Spanoulis also pointed out the growth of domestic competition and the importance of maintaining that momentum.
“The teams from Thessaloniki have become stronger, competition is increasing, and with it the interest of the fans. We can keep it at a high level and have the best possible league.”
Regarding the Greek national team, Spanoulis emphasized unity and competition for places.
“We are united in the national team, and in difficult moments we become even more united. I believe that after two years we have built a winning mentality.
The other players also need to understand that they have to come in and prove they deserve their place. It’s not only about complaining. I want them to make my job harder when it comes to deciding who we select for the team. The goal is to qualify for the FIBA World Cup, but it will certainly be difficult.”
"The players I believe are available, those are the ones I called. It is our mistake that we did not call all the players in this window.
— Basketball Sphere (@BSphere_) July 5, 2026
From the next window, everyone will be here. And when I say everyone, everyone."
After suffering a second defeat in this FIBA window,… pic.twitter.com/DugpvFGtda
