Vassilis Spanoulis looks back on Greek NT debut, explains philosophy / News - Basketnews.com

Spanoulis said this Greek generation can do something great not only now but for future generations as well. The former player said a big thank you to everyone and was happy to start his national team coaching career with a win.

Credit: FIBA Credit FIBA

After an illustrious career as a player, Vassilis Spanoulis made his debut as the head coach of the Greek national team on Friday.

Player of the Game EFF 25 Thomas Walkup Points 16 Accuracy 7-15 Rebounds 8 Assists 8

With Spanoulis under the helm, Greece relatively comfortably beat Czechia, 72-64. After the victory, the former EuroLeague great was thankful to his players and the coaching staff.

"A big thank you to the world. When united, Greece can do many things. I am proud of our first victory," Spanoulis said.

Although making just four, Greece shot 25 three-pointers during the game. The team shot just 40.3% from the field but made 12 steals, five of which belonged to Thomas Walkup, who had a tremendous game, registering 16 points, 8 rebounds, and 8 assists.

Following a victorious debut, Spanoulis expanded on how he was preparing for the matchup and the way he will see the national team going forward.

"I represented the country for many years from a young age, even if I was injured or tired. When the national team calls you, you can't say no. We are proud to be Greeks, and with our soul, we can face any opponent," Spanoulis proclaimed.

"All these months, I have been trying to plan in my head how we will play and which players I will call. As long as I am a coach, the door will be open to everyone," the coach said. "We have to follow a certain philosophy, and I am happy that we are playing with the characteristics that suit it. I believe that this generation can do something great, not only for themselves but also for future generations."

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