Basketball fans in Australia are set for a rare treat, as Panathinaikos BC and KK Partizan prepare to travel Down Under for the prestigious Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament, with Sydney and Melbourne expected to host the celebrated event later this year.
While the official announcement is still pending, sources confirm that the National Basketball League (NBL) is working closely with organisers to stage the tournament, which honours the late patriarch of Panathinaikos Basketball and has become a beloved fixture in the European basketball calendar.
The 2024 edition, held at the iconic Panathenaic Stadium (Kallimarmaro) in Athens, drew a crowd of over 42,000 and gained global attention. For 2025, the goal has been to take the tournament beyond Greek borders – and Australia, with its vibrant Greek and Serbian communities, is the chosen destination.
Panathinaikos Commercial Director Yiannis Lyras visited Australia in February to explore venues and logistics. “At Panathinaikos, we strive each year to create something truly special,” he told Neos Kosmos.
“Partnering with Partizan, we are looking seriously at hosting the tournament in Australia.”
The NBL has responded positively to the proposal, praising both the infrastructure and community enthusiasm. The plan includes games against top Australian clubs such as the Sydney Kings and Adelaide 36ers, with matches likely to be held at Qudos Bank Arena in Sydney and John Cain Arena in Melbourne, according to Code Sports Basketball.
In addition to the games, organisers aim to host community events and side activities, celebrating Greek and Serbian cultural ties and engaging local basketball fans.
While both Panathinaikos and Partizan compete in the EuroLeague, the European body has reportedly given the green light for their participation. Still, the logistics remain complex.
An NBL spokesperson stated in February that, “Bringing the Pavlos Giannakopoulos Tournament to either Sydney or Melbourne would be a landmark achievement for Australian basketball.”
Official confirmation and further details are expected in the coming days.
