Greek basketball federation chief resigns amid match-fixing probe
The president of the Hellenic Basketball Federation (EOK), Vangelis Liolios, resigned on Sunday amid an investigation into alleged match-fixing, bribery and violations of sports legislation, media reported.
The federation's board unanimously appointed Angelos Papanikolaou as his successor during an emergency meeting, according to Greek news outlet Ekathimerini.
Liolios was among six people arrested on Wednesday as part of the investigation into alleged wrongdoing in Greek basketball.
Liolios denies allegations
Liolios submitted his resignation while appearing before an investigating magistrate, saying he wanted to allow the judicial process to proceed without disruption and prevent the case from affecting Greek basketball.
He denied the allegations during testimony that lasted approximately three and a half hours.
Earlier on Sunday, the federation said it remained in “a state of absolute and constant alert” and was closely monitoring developments, pledging to take appropriate institutional action.
Papanikolaou takes over
Papanikolaou previously contested the federation's presidency in 2021, finishing third in the election behind former basketball player Panagiotis Fasoulas and Liolios.
He was subsequently elected to the EOK board in 2025 as part of Liolios' slate.
His appointment comes as the federation faces scrutiny over the ongoing investigation, while the judicial process continues.
