Plus countless memories and friendships.

The Papaflessas basketball program is guided by the principle that every player matters. Founded in 1991 by brothers Dean and Demetri Manassas, we have grown from a handful of junior high school students from Saint Spyridon Church in Palos Heights into a thriving volunteer-led community representing more than 10 parishes throughout the Chicago area. We field teams in every division of several Pan-Orthodox and Hellenic tournaments, such as the National Hellenic Invitational Basketball Tournament and our players travel to tournaments as far away as Canada, Ohio, Michigan, and Florida.

Now in our 27th year, our organization is distinguished as much by our record as by the rich relationships we have fostered within the Hellenic community. Our coaching philosophy has been shaped by the core Greek values of family, love, and loyalty and how these are translated to the game of basketball. We are supported by a network of dedicated coaches, families, and volunteers who believe in the potential of every young athlete.

Our programs are sponsored by the Messenian Association Papaflessas of Chicago, a community-based volunteer organization dedicated to promoting Greek culture. Read a letter from president Fotis Skiadopoulos.