Michalis Kakiouzis

Kakiouzis, captain of the Greek National Team that won the gold medal at the 2005 EuroBasket in Belgrade, is one of the most important athletes in the history of Greek basketball, with a long career at the collegiate and national level. His presence at the festival adds prestige and special glamour to the organization, while it will give young and old the opportunity to get to know a role model athlete and currently successful coach.
Michalis Kakiouzis is one of the most emblematic figures of Greek basketball in recent decades, with a remarkable career both at the club and national level.
Born in Nea Filadelfia in November 1976, he began his journey in the sport at the age of just 8 years old from the Academies of Ionikos Nea Filadelfia. From his first steps, it was clear that he was an athlete with a unique talent and personality. At the age of 16, he made his debut for the Ionikos men's team in the A2 National League, while at just 19 he became the second scorer and rebounder in the category.
In 1995, he won the gold medal at the World Youth Championship, participating in the “golden” generation of Greek basketball. This path led to his transfer to AEK, where he played for 7.5 years, winning the Greek championship (2002), two Greek Cups (2000, 2001) and the Saporta Cup (2000).
He followed a great career abroad, with significant appearances in Siena, Barcelona and Efes Pilsen, also winning the Turkish championship. He continued his journey in teams in France, Italy, Switzerland and Cyprus, while returning to Greece for Aris and later Nea Kifisia. He completed his career in the 2015-2016 season with the jersey of Faros Keratsini, even participating in the 2016 Greek Cup final against Panathinaikos.

In the Men's National Team, he had 116 appearances and 798 points, and was the captain and key figure of the top team that won the gold medal at EuroBasket 2005 and the silver medal at the 2006 World Championship. His journey with the national team began at a young age, with a total of 91 appearances and numerous medals in the Children, Youth and Youth categories.
Michalis Kakiouzis' contribution to Greek basketball has been enormous, not only based on his distinctions, but also for his ethos, leadership character and dedication to the sport.