SuperCup 2025: Statements by Bartzokas - Milutinov
Olympiacos has departed for Rhodes to participate in the Super Cup, where the team will compete for its first trophy of the season. Head coach Giorgos Bartzokas, speaking at the Eleftherios Venizelos Airport, expressed confidence in his team’s potential, stating that they possess the quality and talent to fight for every title.
Bartzokas also addressed Panathinaikos' absence from the competition, the performance he expects from his squad, and provided an update on Keenan Evans’ condition.
On the team's readiness ahead of the season’s first title match: "No team has real chemistry at this stage of the season. This is the first title, and we are expected to show that we are ready."
On Panathinaikos’ absence: "I haven't thought about it at all. Whether they were here or not, our goal is to win the Cup. We respect our opponents, starting with Karditsa, who we play tomorrow. We believe our team has the quality and talent to compete for titles. What remains to be seen is how well we perform, and, of course, the opponent always plays a role. Karditsa is a good team."
On whether he would have preferred a test against Panathinaikos: "We’ve already played against four EuroLeague teams during preseason in Cyprus and Crete. Those were tough tests that helped us improve. Next week, we’ll play in Spain, so it’s actually good that we don’t have another intense and significant game right now."
On Keenan Evans’ status: "There’s nothing new. He’s traveling with us, has started strength training and therapy, and we hope he returns as soon as possible."
On what he expects from the team: "Greater consistency on both offense and defense. Ups and downs are normal during friendlies, but we need to extend our good stretches. Starting from this tournament and going into the EuroLeague, there’s no room for lapses."
On whether a new player will join the squad for the trip to Spain on Monday: "100% no."
Nikola Milutinov also spoke about the importance of winning the first trophy of the season, the team’s desire to find rhythm, and commented on his decision to remain with Olympiacos.
"It’s a great opportunity to start the season the right way, to find our rhythm, especially now that we are finally all together. We’ve had a few practices, and we want to show a better image compared to last week. Starting the season with a trophy would be ideal."
On his decision to stay with the team: "There were many thoughts and options at the time. But that’s all in the past. Now I’m here, focused on the new season, and I’m happy to be part of this team."