Giannis Antetokounmpo has put an end to his dispute with Turkish basketball player Alperen Şengün through a series of social media posts.
It all began with a statement by Şengün about Giannis, claiming that he “is not a good passer”. The issue grew further after Greece’s national team was defeated by Turkey. The Turkish centre posted a message with indirect references to the Asia Minor Catastrophe, sparking strong reactions. With the controversy escalating, Şengün later deleted the post, calling it a “communication mistake”.
The confrontation reached its peak when Giannis, during an Instagram live stream celebrating Greece’s bronze medal, responded to hostile comments, which provoked the “anger” of Turkish fans. It should be noted that his family also received threats.
Giannis ended the row with an Instagram story:
“During my live feed, I made an inappropriate comment responding to somebody that was making disrespectful remarks. My intention was never to offend anyone. AND I’M DEEPLY SORRY. I have nothing but love and respect for Turkey and people all around the world. That’s how our parents raised us – with love and respect.”
Psychological operations by Turkey’s Defence Ministry
Meanwhile, Turkey’s own Ministry of Defence helped fuel the climate of confrontation. On the occasion of the EuroBasket final between Turkey and Germany, it published a social media post that generated heated discussion.
In the video shared on the official account of the Turkish MoD on X, the “12 Giants” (the national basketball players) are portrayed as an extension of national power, with the message: “Clear will, this victory will be ours”, accompanied by references to the “hearts united” of army and people.
Analysts interpret the post as part of Ankara’s psychological operations, using sport to cultivate nationalist fervour and to project strength both domestically and abroad.
🇹🇷 Kararlıyız, bu zafer bizim olacak!
— T.C. Millî Savunma Bakanlığı (@tcsavunma) September 14, 2025
Bu akşam Almanya karşısında tarih yazmaya çıkacak 12 Dev Adam’a gönülden başarılar diliyoruz. 🏀🔥
Kahraman Türk Silahlı Kuvvetlerimizin yiğitleri ve aziz milletimiz tek yürek oldu!
Kalplerimizde tek bir haykırış var: Şampiyonluk… pic.twitter.com/JhiygMBFw5
“We are determined, this victory will be ours! We wholeheartedly wish success to the 12 Giant Men who will take the court tonight to make history against Germany.
The brave heroes of our heroic Turkish Armed Forces and our esteemed nation have united as one! There is only one cry in our hearts: The championship will be Turkey’s! Come on 12 Giant Men, shine once again like the Crescent Star!”
Also read: Giannis Antetokounmpo cries with flag after bronze medal
For more videos and updates, check out our YouTube channel.
