Flopping 07.09.2025 – 16:18
When Olympiacos decided to secure Keenan Evans towards the end of the season before last, they placed significant hopes on the American guard following his standout performance with Žalgiris. Unfortunately, fate dealt a harsh blow to Evans, as a severe injury sidelined him for an entire season. Although this setback did not prevent his high-profile transfer from Žalgiris to Olympiacos, it undeniably stalled a crucial phase of his career.
Evans was unable to take the court for Olympiacos last season, but this year, under the guidance of coach Giorgos Bartzokas, he is expected to play a pivotal role. Early indications from preseason training and the initial friendly match against Promitheas have been very encouraging, suggesting that Evans is regaining his form and fitness.
Evans’ Role in Shaping Olympiacos’ Backcourt
The condition and performance of Keenan Evans will largely influence the final composition of Olympiacos’ roster, especially concerning the guard positions. Bartzokas appears to be keeping his options open regarding further signings in the backcourt, with players like Lee still in consideration. However, Evans remains the cornerstone of these plans. The coach’s confidence in Evans’ ability to impact games is strong, and if one were to predict Bartzokas’ final decision, it would likely be to rely on Evans without pursuing additional guard acquisitions.
Strengthening the Frontcourt: The Kumantze Factor
While the backcourt situation remains fluid, the frontcourt is poised for reinforcement. The arrival of Kumantze is not merely symbolic; his performances in training have impressed the coaching staff, prompting Bartzokas to seriously contemplate his integration into the team’s rotation. This development adds depth and versatility to Olympiacos’ big men, complementing the existing roster that includes Milutinov, Hall, and Antetokounmpo.
This season will proceed without the presence of Olympiacos’ veteran stalwart, Fall, who suffered a serious injury. Despite this absence, the combination of Milutinov, Hall, Antetokounmpo, and now Kumantze provides a robust and confident frontcourt lineup. Bartzokas is currently evaluating all factors carefully and will soon finalize his decisions regarding the roster, ensuring the team is well-prepared for the challenges ahead.