LTU - Jasikevicius stunned by Pana welcome

ATHENS (A1 League) - Lithuania star Sarunas Jasikevicius admitted he had never expected the huge welcome he received from Panathinaikos supporters on his arrival in Athens to sign for the Greek double-winners and Euroleague champions.

The 31-year-old guard, who was met by around 1,000 Panathinaikos fans at Athens Eleftheris Venizelos airport on Thursday afternoon, will become Greece's highest paid sportsman, earning a reported seven million euros over two years.

But Jasikevicius, who is nicknamed Saras, insisted that it was not the hefty salary package that attracted him to Panathinaikos.

"It's true that I have been made a big offer but this did not play any role," he said.

"What matters is the team, which is a big team. This is the most important thing."

Panathinaikos enjoyed an unprecedented season of success in 2006/07, winning the Greek A1 League, Greek Cup and the Euroleague title but Jasikevicius said that he does not feel any added pressure.

"I don't feel any pressure from anyone. I am the only one that puts pressure on myself. I am not affected by others," he added.

Jasikevicius and his new team-mates get their domestic season under way on October 20.

Graham Wood
FIBA