By Marti Artigas

 

Two victories in two games and leading the group B of the U20 Division "A" European Championship with Russia. Greece arrived to Slovenia, where the tournament is held, with a big absence: Lynos Chrysikopoulos ('92). The small forward has missed many games this season in Italy (Angelico Biella) due to an injury, and now was unable to participate in the tournament because he is still recovering. But Giannoulis Larentzakis ('93) is being the man at the moment. 6'5'' guard is averaging 22.0 points, 7.0 rebounds and 4.5 steals. Really impressive was yesterday's performance in the blow-up over Estonia (69-91) with 28 (6/9 twos, 4/6 threes and 4/6 free throws), adding 10 boards, 6 steals, 5 assists and 1 block. "I am very happy that I started well and it is important that the performances were combined with two victories for my team", explained the greek prospect after his show to Eurohopes.

 

The player of Ikaros Kallitheas made a great U18 European Championship last summer (18.7 points with 46% from downtown), and now is capable to lead his teammates. "It's not on Chrysikopoulos' absence but Psaropoulos as well. We are trying to cover them with our teamwork and by stepping our game up", tells the young player. And has clear thoughts: "We are looking at the games one by one separately and trying to go as high as we can. Favorites? I believe Spain, France, Serbia and I hope us".

 

Twitter of the author: @marti_artigas

 

Photo: FIBA Europe / Ales Fevzer