Panathinaikos calls for resignation of ESAKE members

In Greek basketball, Panathinaikos asked at an ESAKE board meeting that the members of the Referee Committee and the EOK resign together. The club was represented by COO Stavros Dinos and legal adviser Evangelos Desypris.

Dinos said the EOK president and two members of the Referee Committee are in detention, while two other members have given testimony as witnesses in favor of detained persons. He argued that in this situation it is unacceptable for the other members to appoint referees. Stressing that being legal does not mean being ethical, Dinos said everyone should resign immediately.

Panathinaikos representatives said they would not sign a joint statement that takes no position on the detained members. During the meeting, Dinos left the hall when Prometheus President Christos Milas began speaking. According to the minutes, Panathinaikos representatives also stated that the Referee Committee is legally operating and can appoint referees.

Although no joint statement was issued, ESAKE President Mihalis Melis made an announcement on his own behalf. Melis said Stoiximan GBL is working to protect sporting competition and the reputation of the league. He said Greek justice will examine the allegations of recent days and he believes the necessary responsibilities will be established. He also announced that Stoiximan GBL will provide legal support to the judicial processes so the investigation can be clarified.