Cyprus' National Betting Authority Ethics and Sports Protection Committee is closely monitoring developments in a major basketball match-fixing investigation in Greece and has not ruled out launching its own inquiry if circumstances warrant it.
According to information reported by Politis, the committee is in contact with the relevant Greek authorities and is awaiting additional information concerning a match played in Paphos in March 2026 as part of the Panhellenic Secondary School Basketball Championship of Greece and Cyprus.
Cypriot authorities reviewing developments
The committee is expected to decide early next week whether sufficient grounds exist to open an investigation in Cyprus, based on information received from Greek authorities.
The case attracting attention relates to a school basketball semi-final played between Anagennisi Patras Educational Institutions and Hellenic College Thessaloniki during a tournament hosted in Cyprus.
The competition alternates annually between Greece and Cyprus under an agreement between the two countries.
Match in Paphos under scrutiny
According to the case file cited in the report, questions have been raised about the outcome of the match.
The Thessaloniki team was reportedly leading 58-45 with approximately 12 minutes remaining. During the final stages of the game, a total of 52 free throws were awarded to the Patras side, which eventually won the match 64-60.
The report notes that successful participants in the competition receive educational merit points, adding further significance to the outcome.
The allegations have generated particular concern because they relate to a school sporting competition involving young athletes rather than professional sport.
Match remains available online
The tournament was held on 27 and 28 March at the Aphrodite Indoor Hall in Paphos.
According to the report, the match and other tournament games were broadcast live on YouTube, where recordings remain available.
The article states that refereeing decisions during the game led to tension in the stands, with reactions from players, parents and spectators. Comments posted beneath the online broadcast also continue to discuss the match and raise questions about its outcome.
Wider Greek basketball investigation
The Cyprus review follows a major operation by Greek authorities into alleged manipulation of basketball matches.
According to information published by Greek police and cited by Politis:
- Six individuals were arrested in connection with an investigation into alleged interference in basketball matches.
- Authorities seized €931,463 in cash.
- Investigators also confiscated 14 mobile phones, six laptops, 22 USB storage devices, tablets, memory cards and other materials.
- Searches were carried out in Attica, Achaia and Katerini.
The arrests relate to allegations involving attempts to influence the course, nature or outcome of basketball matches linked to domestic or international betting activities.
Suspects deny wrongdoing
Among those implicated in the Greek investigation are Hellenic Basketball Federation (EOK) president Vangelis Liolios, former referee Petros Papapetrou, referee Vasso Tsaroucha, refereeing adviser Ilias Koromilas, Central Refereeing Committee member Tasos Piloidis, and Giorgos Mavraganis.
According to the report, all have been granted time to prepare their responses before appearing before judicial authorities.
Liolios has rejected the allegations and described the case as an attempt to prevent changes in Greek basketball. Papapetrou has reportedly stated that he possesses documentation explaining his financial assets after authorities found €820,000 at his residence.
The investigation in Greece remains ongoing, while Cypriot authorities continue assessing whether any aspect of the case falls within their jurisdiction.
