Kostas Tsartsaris and Dusan Kecman where the two players form Panathinaikos that visited amongst other players from all three Berlin Final 4 participating teams the Virchow hospital pediatrics department for children with cancer. All players gave out presents, had their pictures taking with the kids, signed autographs and basketballs. Jordi Bertomeu, Euroleague commissioner addressing all players stated that “tomorrow you may be winners or losers, but today you are all winners”.
Kostas Tsartsaris stated: “Above all we are human. Each time we come to the same realization. That all that is of any importance is here. The fact that we can offer some joy, that we can make a happy interval in the lives of these children who got worse luck than they bargained for, but also that we can offer their parents the precious opportunity to see them smile, is substantial. Let’s not forget that they too experience difficult situations. We feel that we are giving back, at least a little”.
Dusan Kecman stressed: “It a good deal. It is something we do not only as basketball players but moreover as simple human beings. And it should not only take place during Final 4s or at Christmas. It is important that we share happiness but also certain gifts. It is a gesture we make with Panathinaikos and the emotions are always the same. We are joyful but moved at the same time. These are particular moments for them but believe me for us too. There was not any basketball talk, but every day discussion such as what’s your name, where are you from… Simple, very simple things that have a way to become very beautiful”.
