Melbourne – John Cain Arena was transformed into a cauldron of colour, sound, and emotion on Thursday night as Panathinaikos and Partizan Belgrade brought European basketball’s intensity to Australian shores.
The Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament, staged outside Greece for the first time, drew a sell-out crowd of more than 10,500, demonstrating the passion of Melbourne’s Greek, Serbian, and wider basketball community.
A high-tempo clash
Despite the fatigue of long-haul travel — some players arriving in Australia only hours before tip-off — the contest was played at a relentless pace. Partizan led at halftime, but Panathinaikos rallied in the second half, turning the game with defensive pressure and sharp shooting.
The Greens sealed a 91–82 victory, powered by Kendrick Nunn (21 points) and Omer Yurtseven (20 points, 13 rebounds). For Partizan, Duane Washington Jr. led the way with 19 points.
Quarter scores: 20–27, 37–44, 62–58, 91–82.
More than a game
The atmosphere was as memorable as the basketball. Greek and Serbian fans created a festival-like environment, waving flags and chanting throughout. At halftime, traditional dance groups from both communities joined forces on court, blending music and costume in a display that electrified the crowd.
Among those watching was Australian NBA guard Josh Giddey, who had trained with Panathinaikos earlier in the week in Port Melbourne.
Coaches reflect
At the post-game press conference, Panathinaikos coach Ergin Ataman praised the occasion:
“It’s a different experience for us. From what I saw tonight, it was an incredible atmosphere for what is technically a friendly game. Both teams took it seriously, and the arena was sold out. Maybe this shows a path for the future of world basketball.”
Asked whether Panathinaikos’ presence in Australia could become a tradition if his side wins the EuroLeague, Ataman smiled:
“Maybe next year it’s an Australian team travelling abroad… What I saw here is that EuroLeague itself was present, the referees, the organisers. Maybe they are thinking of something new to make basketball more global.”
Partizan coach Željko Obradović, a legend at Panathinaikos from his many title-winning years, also spoke warmly:
“We are happy to play in a tournament named after Pavlos Giannakopoulos, a man who gave so much to European basketball. Panathinaikos is like my own club — we shared 27 finals and 23 trophies together. The feeling tonight was special.”
Looking ahead
The tournament now moves to Sydney’s Qudos Bank Arena, where on Sunday Partizan will meet the Sydney Kings, and Panathinaikos will face the Adelaide 36ers.
For Melbourne, though, the message was clear: when European basketball travels, Australia is ready to embrace it.
