Mitoglou: 'Canada is like Team USA' / News - Basketnews.com

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Dinos Mitoglou stressed his readiness for the challenge of the Greek national team and expressed hope regarding blue and white's qualification for the Tokyo Olympics. He also hopes that Greece will have Giannis Antetokounmpo at the big tournament.

Here is what Mitoglou had to say on Cosmote TV's "Pick 'n Roll" show:

On the season with Panathinaikos: "I was pleased with the way it went, with the ups and downs and the coronavirus. I'm very happy that the team won the double (League title and Cup trophy). We could have done a little better in Europe. All the guys fought and also the coaches, the club and the management. We all put in a lot of effort. I am glad of that. It leaves a sweet taste in the end."

On the National Team and his role: "I had a full year with many games on my shoulders. I'm ready to rise to the challenge alongside Giorgos Papagiannis. I'm ready for the challenge. I'm looking forward to playing for the national team, there's no greater honor."

On his position on the floor: "It's been a long time since I last played at the '3' position. I played there a little bit while in college (Wake Forest). Coach told me to play at '3' because of somebody's absence. I told him I was there whatever it took. On defense, we can switch".

On Team Canada: "It will be a very difficult game. It's like a second Team USA. A fast and athletic team with NBA players. We will not have Giannis and Thanassis, which will be a blow to us. Canada won't have Brooks, Thompson, Murray. Can we win? Why not? Coach knows, he believes we can win."

On the National Team's style of play with Pitino: "Everything can be done. Coach wants the transition game. Whatever he asks, you have to do it. We have the talent. He wants a few training sessions and I believe we can manage."

On whether he's motivated to qualify to the Olympics to play together with Giannis Antetokounmpo: "It is very important and we are glad that if we qualify, Giannis will be at the Olympics. Every Greek player would like to be his teammate on the national team. He's the MVP, he's a World basketball star with a lot of great talent. It will fill us with joy in case he joins our team".

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