Hilton Armstrong is the Panathinaikos family’s newest addition. The New Yorker signed on to the Greens and his presence is expected to essentially enhance the team’s“big men” department.
Armstrong (2m11), was born on the 23rd of November 1984 at Peekskill NY . He studied in Connecticut (2002-06), whereat year by year he made sure to improve, reaching to his senior year behind a 9.7 point average, 6.6 rebounds and 3.1 blocked shots, only to be named Best Defender of the season in the Big East. Back in 2004 he had been named NCAA Champion.
The New Orleans Hornets drafted him at number 12. He continued in the NBA competing for the Sacramento Kings and the Atlanta Hawks before making the leap over to Europe . He was then signed on to Villeurbanne where he stayed on for season 2011-12. In the French League he got to 11.1 points and 7.2 rebounds in 29 games, 4th rebounder of the entire League, equivalent accomplishments for him in the Eurocup competition as he rounded up the season behind 10.2 points and 5.5 rebounds across an 11 game competing time span.
Hilton Armstrong all the way from Houston, were he is currently situated, seemed to know all too well where it is he is coming and what Panathinaikos stands for: “I have never competed in the Greek League or Euroleague but I know very well that Panathinaikos’ history goes way back, that it has conquered title after title, titles being ample proof on their own of what exactly this team means. I got an ever better idea yesterday when I twitted that I am to play for Panathinaikos, only to receive 100 answers from the team’s friends who wished to warmly welcome me immediately. They expressed their gratitude and in return I would like to thank them for their reaction. It was very important to me. The crowd has already proven to me that they are spectacular. I do not know any player personally but I am familiar with many of them. I can’t wait to get to Athens in order to get down to business. I can help out in backcourt and I believe that defense is the strongest aspect of my game, as also good collaboration with my teammates in this particular department. I fight at every phase for the best possible outcome. The object towards which I always aim is to be able to offer to my team with my game. It is the most basic element. Teamwork is what brings good results. I know that Panathinaikos aims high for yet another season. We lost the championship last year but I really do believe that we will re-establish ourselves at top spot this year. It is a challenge for me and all’s common goal. Personally I hope to offer the best possible”.
