Famous Greek Basketball Players

Giannis Antetokounmpo is a professional basketball player for the Milwaukee Bucks of the NBA, known as the "Greek Freak" for his exceptional size, speed, and strength. He started playing for Filathlitikos in Athens before being drafted in 2013 by the Bucks. Antetokounmpo has achieved numerous accolades, including multiple All-Star selections, consecutive MVP awards in 2019 and 2020, and winning the NBA championship in 2021 where he was named Finals MVP. He is considered one of the greatest power forwards and players in NBA history.

Kurt Rambis is a Greek-American former professional basketball player and coach. He won four NBA championships as a power forward for the Los Angeles Lakers during the Showtime era. Rambis played college basketball for the Santa Clara Broncos and was named player of the year in the West Coast Conference. He started his NBA career with the New York Knicks before joining the Lakers. Rambis also played for the Charlotte Hornets, Phoenix Suns, and Sacramento Kings. As a coach, he has led the Lakers, Minnesota Timberwolves, and the Knicks, winning two league championships as an assistant coach with the Lakers.

Kosta Koufos is a Greek-American professional basketball player who began his career after being drafted by the Utah Jazz in 2008. Throughout his career, Koufos has played for various NBA teams, including the Minnesota Timberwolves, Denver Nuggets, Sacramento Kings, and Memphis Grizzlies. Known for his defensive skills and rebounding abilities, Koufos has established himself as a reliable center in the league. As a free agent, he continues to garner interest from teams looking to add his experience and versatility to their roster.

Thanasis Antetokounmpo, also known as "Thanasty", is a professional basketball player for the Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA. He plays as a small forward and power forward, contributing to the team's success. Thanasis secured an NBA championship with the Bucks in 2021, showcasing his skills and dedication on the court. As the older brother of NBA superstar Giannis Antetokounmpo, he brings experience and talent to the team, making valuable contributions to their gameplay.

Dimitris Diamantidis is a retired Greek professional basketball player known for his versatile skills and impact on the game. Spending most of his EuroLeague career with Panathinaikos, he won three EuroLeague titles and received various accolades, including MVP awards and Best Defender Awards. He excelled in the Greek League, winning multiple titles and MVP awards. Diamantidis also achieved success with the Greek national team, winning a EuroBasket gold medal and leading them to a FIBA World Cup silver medal.

Kostas Antetokounmpo is a professional basketball player currently competing for Panathinaikos in the Greek Basket League and the EuroLeague. He previously played college basketball for the Dayton Flyers and was selected in the 2018 NBA draft by the Philadelphia 76ers before being traded to the Dallas Mavericks. Antetokounmpo secured an NBA championship with the Los Angeles Lakers in 2020. Additionally, he is part of the ownership group for Nashville SC in the MLS, showcasing his diverse interests beyond basketball.

Georgios Printezis is a retired Greek professional basketball player known for his successful career primarily with Olympiacos Piraeus in the Greek Basket League and the EuroLeague. He achieved notable success, winning consecutive EuroLeague titles in 2012 and 2013. Printezis is remembered for his game-winning shot in the 2012 EuroLeague Final, a historic moment in the competition. He received recognition with an All-EuroLeague First Team selection in 2017 and played a key role in Greece's bronze medal victory at the 2009 EuroBasket.

Nikos Galis, widely known as "Nick The Greek," is a legendary Greek former professional basketball player. Renowned as Europe's greatest scorer, he achieved numerous accolades during his career. Galis excelled as a shooting guard, primarily with Aris Thessaloniki and Panathinaikos Athens. He dominated the EuroLeague, winning multiple scoring titles and reaching the Final Four four times. Galis also had remarkable success with the Greece men's national team, leading them to EuroBasket gold and silver medals. His impact on Greek basketball is immense, inspiring a generation of players and earning him a lasting legacy as a national hero and sports icon.

Vassilis Spanoulis is a Greek former professional basketball player and coach, known for his signature move "Spanoulis Action". He played as a point guard-shooting guard, earning nicknames like Kill Bill and V-Span. Spanoulis achieved numerous accolades, including EuroLeague MVP and Eurobasket Player of the Year. He won multiple EuroLeague and Greek League titles with Panathinaikos Athens and Olympiacos Piraeus. As a key player for the Greek national team, Spanoulis contributed to victories in FIBA competitions and was recognized as one of Europe's greatest basketball legends.

Nazareth Jersey Mitrou-Long is a professional basketball player for Olympiacos in the Greek Basket League and the EuroLeague. He began his career playing college basketball for the Iowa State Cyclones before participating in the 2017 NBA Summer League with the Sacramento Kings. Mitrou-Long went on to play in the NBA for the Utah Jazz and the Indiana Pacers, appearing in a total of 20 regular-season games. Known for his skills on the court, he continues to make strides in the world of professional basketball.

Kostas Papanikolaou, also known as "Air Pap," is a Greek professional basketball player who currently serves as the team captain for Olympiacos in the Greek Basket League and EuroLeague. Standing at 2.04 m, he plays at the small forward position and is renowned for his exceptional defensive skills. Papanikolaou has achieved significant success in his career, winning back-to-back EuroLeague championships with Olympiacos in 2012 and 2013. He is also a record-holder in EuroLeague history for various statistical milestones and has been a key member of the Hellenic national team.

Zach Auguste is a professional basketball player known for his time with SeaHorses Mikawa in the B.League. Standing at 6'10", he plays as a center. Auguste began his basketball career in high school at Marlborough before moving to New Hampton School, where he earned a nomination for the McDonald's All-American Game. He later played college basketball for the University of Notre Dame, where he experienced success, including winning the ACC tournament title and reaching the NCAA Elite Eight during his junior season.

Nick Calathes is a Greek-American professional basketball player known for his exceptional skills as a point guard in the EuroLeague. He has achieved significant success with teams like Panathinaikos and FC Barcelona, winning the EuroLeague title in 2011 and reaching the final in 2021. Calathes is a two-time All-EuroLeague First Team selection and holds records for most assists and steals in EuroLeague history. He also represents the Hellenic national basketball team and won a bronze medal at EuroBasket 2009.

Tyler Quincy Dorsey is an American-Greek professional basketball player currently signed with Olympiacos in the Greek Basket League and EuroLeague. He is known for his position as a shooting guard and has also represented the Greek national basketball team. Dorsey's career took off after playing college basketball for the Oregon Ducks following his graduation from Maranatha High School in California. His talent and skills have earned him a prominent place in the basketball world, showcasing his abilities on both domestic and international platforms.

Sofoklis Schortsanitis is a retired Greek professional basketball player known for his successful career in the EuroLeague. He was recognized as an All-EuroLeague First Team selection in 2011 and secured the EuroLeague title in 2014 with Maccabi Tel Aviv. Schortsanitis also reached the EuroLeague Final in 2010 and 2011 while playing for Olympiacos and Maccabi, respectively. His contributions extended to the Greece men's national basketball team, where he helped secure silver and bronze medals in the FIBA World Championship and EuroBasket tournaments. He is affectionately nicknamed "Big Sofo" or "Baby Shaq."

Georgios Papagiannis is a professional basketball player currently playing for AS Monaco in the French LNB Pro A and the EuroLeague. Standing at 7 ft 2 3⁄4 in (2.20 m) tall with a wingspan of 7 ft 6 in (2.29 m), he is known for his skills as a center. In 2022, he was recognized as an All-EuroLeague Second Team selection. Additionally, Papagiannis proudly represents the senior National Team of Greece, showcasing his talent and dedication at an international level.

Theodoros Papaloukas is a retired Greek professional basketball player known for his revolutionary impact on European basketball. He started his career with local clubs before moving to Olympiacos and then CSKA Moscow, where he played a crucial role in the team's success. Papaloukas led CSKA to their first EuroLeague title in 2006 and won a second title in 2008. He also had a successful international career, helping Greece win EuroBasket 2005 and earning accolades in various tournaments.

Stratos Perperoglou is a retired Greek professional basketball player known for his time as a small forward. Standing at 2.03 meters tall, he showcased his skills on the court throughout his career. Perperoglou's contributions to various teams were marked by his versatility, scoring ability, and defensive prowess. He competed at a high level, both domestically and internationally, leaving a lasting impact on the sport. His dedication, work ethic, and passion for the game made him a respected figure in the basketball community.

Ioannis Bourousis, also known as Giannis Bourousis, is a retired Greek professional basketball player and current basketball executive. Standing at 7 ft 3⁄4 in tall and weighing 270 lb, he primarily played as a center. Throughout his career, Bourousis achieved recognition as a two-time All-EuroLeague First Team selection. He was likened to basketball legend Vlade Divac by Gregg Popovich. Bourousis notably contributed to Greece's success in international competitions, including winning gold at the 2005 EuroBasket. He now serves as the general manager of ASK Karditsa basketball club, with an arena named in his honor.

Konstantinos "Kostas" Sloukas is a highly accomplished Greek professional basketball player known for his skills as a left-handed combo guard. He serves as the team captain for Panathinaikos in both the Greek Basket League and the EuroLeague. Sloukas has an impressive track record in the EuroLeague, with multiple Finals appearances and championship wins. He has been recognized for his exceptional performance with selections to the All-EuroLeague First and Second Teams. Sloukas made history by winning the EuroLeague title with three different teams, solidifying his status as one of the top players in his generation.

Ioannis Sfairopoulos is a Greek professional basketball coach known for his successful career in coaching. He currently serves as the head coach for Crvena zvezda in the Basketball League of Serbia, the Adriatic League, and the EuroLeague. Sfairopoulos has demonstrated his expertise and leadership in the sport through his coaching style and strategic approach to the game. His coaching skills have allowed him to achieve notable accomplishments and establish a strong presence in the European basketball scene.

Nikos Zisis is a prominent figure in the world of basketball, serving as a basketball executive and former professional player. Throughout his illustrious career, Zisis achieved remarkable success, winning numerous championships and accolades. He showcased his versatility on the court by excelling in multiple positions for various clubs across Europe. His notable achievements include winning the EuroLeague championship, multiple national league titles, domestic cup championships, and European national super cup titles. Zisis also made significant contributions to the Greek national basketball team, earning medals in prestigious international tournaments.

Panagiotis "Notis" Giannakis is a former Greek professional basketball player and coach, widely regarded as one of Greece's greatest sportspeople. As a player, he achieved success with Aris Thessaloniki and Panathinaikos, winning the EuroLeague in 1996. Giannakis was a key member of the legendary Greek national team in the late 1980s, winning EuroBasket 1987 and achieving notable success in subsequent tournaments. Transitioning to coaching, he led teams like Maroussi Athens, Olympiacos Piraeus, and the Greek and Chinese national teams to significant achievements, including gold at the 2005 EuroBasket and a silver medal at the 2006 FIBA World Cup.

Georgios Bartzokas is a retired professional basketball player turned successful head coach. Known for his contributions to Olympiacos in the Greek Basket League and EuroLeague, he has built a reputation as a skilled and strategic leader in the basketball world. With a wealth of experience both on and off the court, Bartzokas has proven his ability to guide teams to victory and inspire players to reach their full potential. His coaching career continues to flourish as he remains a respected figure in the sport.

Nikolaos "Nikos" Pappas is a retired Greek professional basketball player known for his time with Panathinaikos in the Greek Basket League and the EuroLeague. Standing at 1.95 m, he excelled in the shooting guard-small forward positions. Following his basketball career, Pappas transitioned into politics and currently serves as a Member of the European Parliament representing Syriza. Throughout his career, Pappas showcased skill and dedication both on the court and in his political endeavors, making a significant impact in both realms.

Dimitrios Agravanis, also known as Dimitris, is a skilled Greek professional basketball player currently competing for Hefei Kuangfeng in the Chinese National Basketball League (NBL). Standing at 6 ft 10 in (2.08 m), he primarily operates as a power forward but is versatile enough to take on the role of a center. With his height and playing abilities, Agravanis brings a strong presence to the court, showcasing his talent and contributing to his team's performance in the league.

Jake Tsakalidis is a former professional basketball player known for his impressive career as a center. He holds dual citizenship in Georgia and Greece, where he was born and raised. Standing at 7 feet 2 inches, Tsakalidis made a name for himself in the basketball world with his skills and talent on the court. Throughout his professional career, he competed at a high level and gained recognition for his contributions to the sport, leaving a lasting impact on the basketball community.

Christopher Razis is a skilled Cypriot/Greek professional basketball player currently playing for Keravnos in the Cypriot League. Standing at 1.94 meters tall, he is known for his versatility as a combo guard. With a strong presence on the court, Razis brings a combination of scoring ability and defensive skills to his team. He has showcased his talent and dedication through consistent performances, contributing to the success of his team in various games and competitions.

Loukas Mavrokefalidis is a Greek professional basketball player known for his versatility as a power forward and center. He has played for various teams in Europe, including Ionikos Nikaias in the Greek Basket League. Mavrokefalidis has also represented the senior Hellenic national team, showcasing his skills on an international level. With a height of 2.10 meters (6'10 3⁄4") and a weight of 120 kilograms (265 lbs.), he has demonstrated his prowess on the court since being selected in the 2006 NBA draft.

Ioannis Papapetrou is a versatile Greek professional basketball player known for his skillful play at both small forward and power forward positions. He currently serves as the vice-captain for Panathinaikos, a prominent team in the Greek Basket League and the EuroLeague. Standing at 206 cm (6’9’’) tall, Papapetrou's height and agility make him a valuable asset on the court. With his strong presence and strategic capabilities, he has established himself as a key player in the competitive world of professional basketball.

Dinos Mitoglou is a versatile Greek professional basketball player known for his skills as a power forward and occasional center. He currently serves as the vice-captain for Panathinaikos in the Greek Basket League and the EuroLeague. Mitoglou previously played college basketball at Wake Forest University, where he honed his talents before transitioning to the professional ranks. Standing at 2.10 meters tall, he brings a strong presence to the court and is recognized for his contributions both offensively and defensively.

Slobodan "Piksi" Subotić is a Greek-Slovenian professional basketball coach and former player. He has had a successful career in the sport, serving as the head coach for Budućnost in various leagues. Known for his incredible shooting ability, he stands at 2.02 m tall. Subotić holds citizenship in Slovenia, Greece, and Bosnia. He obtained Greek citizenship by administratively changing his name to Slompontan "Lefteris" Soumpotits to navigate EU restrictions. His expertise and experience have made him a respected figure in the basketball community.

Radoslav "Rasho" Nesterović is a retired Slovenian professional basketball player who had a successful career in the NBA. He played for various teams including the Minnesota Timberwolves, San Antonio Spurs, Indiana Pacers, and Toronto Raptors. Nesterović was known for his defensive skills and rebounding abilities, making significant contributions to his teams. He played a key role in the success of the Spurs, helping them win an NBA championship in 2005. Nesterović retired in 2011, leaving behind a legacy as a skilled and reliable center.

Vasilis Kikilias is a Greek politician who served as Minister for Tourism in the Cabinet of Kyriakos Mitsotakis. He is a member of the Hellenic Parliament for New Democracy. Prior to his political career, Kikilias had a successful professional basketball career, playing for various teams including Panionios B.C., Ionikos Nikaias B.C., AEK B.C., Apollon Patras B.C., and the Greece men's national basketball team. He transitioned from sports to politics and has been actively involved in public service since then.

Eleanna Christinaki is a highly accomplished Greek-Cypriot professional basketball player known for her versatility and scoring ability. She has a successful career at both the club and national team levels, showcasing her talent in various leagues and competitions. With impressive stats and accolades, such as being named MVP and earning multiple awards, Christinaki has established herself as a valuable player in the basketball community. Her dedication to the sport is evident through her consistent performance and contributions to her teams over the years.