Μake us preferred on Google The head of Greece’s basketball federation has vowed that those implicated in the ongoing match-fixing scandal known as “Basketgate” will be held accountable, as the organization seeks to restore stability and prepare for elections in December.
Angelos Papanikolaou, the new president of the Hellenic Basketball Federation (EOK), addressed the scandal and the federation’s future in an interview with public broadcaster ERT on Thursday, October 29.
“Some people sold out basketball, as well as the Greeks who have such a great love for it,” Papanikolaou said. “They will be judged by the justice system.”
He said the new administration had taken responsibility for keeping the sport running and ensuring institutional stability. Working with the Sports Ministry, it aims to hold in-person elections on December 20.
Funding concerns and the risk of disruption
Papanikolaou said government assistance was needed to address the suspension of funding and ensure that all sports clubs could participate in the electoral process.
He also rejected calls for the federation’s board to resign and be replaced by a temporary administration appointed by a court, arguing that such a move could plunge Greek basketball into uncertainty and chaos.
As an example of the current administration’s efforts to maintain continuity, he pointed to the previous weekend, when approximately 700 games took place without disruption across national and local leagues, including youth competitions.
A court-appointed interim administration could freeze the federation’s financial operations for 45 days, he warned.
Papanikolaou also questioned whether such an arrangement would be institutionally appropriate in relation to the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) and funding for regional basketball associations. He cited the national team’s travel needs as an example of the practical consequences of outstanding financial obligations.
Papanikolaou leaves election candidacy open
Asked whether he would run in the December 20 elections, Papanikolaou said his immediate priority was to unite the sport and guide Greek basketball toward a healthier future, without indicating whether he would seek another term.
He also addressed the candidacy of former basketball player Panagiotis Fasoulas. The two competed against each other in the 2021 election, Papanikolaou said, but added that everyone should be free to participate.
He stressed the importance of consistent engagement and stability, saying the sport should avoid an increasingly toxic atmosphere.
How complaints are handled
Papanikolaou outlined the process for handling complaints related to the scandal, explaining that it was established through E.P.A.TH.L.A., the sports-integrity platform created by the Sports Ministry.
Complaints submitted through the platform are recorded and referred to the competent committee under the supervision of a sports prosecutor, he said.
He also discussed the resignation of Piloidis and the resulting difficulties in staffing the Central Refereeing Committee. Despite an open invitation for new members, no one came forward, Papanikolaou said. He expressed confidence in the existing committee and in Greek referees.
