As Olympiacos fought their way to a dramatic 92–85 victory over Real Madrid to capture the 2026 EuroLeague title, they had a massive supporter cheering from the stands: NBA superstar and Greek basketball legend Giannis Antetokounmpo.
Returning to his roots just minutes away from where he grew up, the “Greek Freak” was left completely awestruck by the deafening energy inside the Telekom Center in Athens. Speaking during a halftime broadcast interview, Antetokounmpo made it clear that despite playing in the world’s biggest NBA arenas, European basketball crowds hit differently.
“The atmosphere is incredible,” Giannis said. “I’ve been to many Final Fours, I’ve seen many Final Fours, but I’ve never seen an atmosphere like this. The EuroLeague should consider hosting the Final Four every single year here in Athens.”
For Giannis, the night transcended typical club rivalries. Even with the immense pressure on local favorites Olympiacos, he viewed the evening as a massive win for the entire nation. “I’m so proud of being Greek,” he added. “It doesn’t matter what team you root for. Today is a night for Greece. All Greeks should be proud of this moment.”
With the victory, Olympiacos broke a thirteen-year drought to secure their fourth European crown, igniting a massive celebration across Athens—and leaving one of the NBA’s greatest players thoroughly entertained.
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