Riots erupted during the opening game of the Greek League finals on Thursday as Panathinaikos defeated archrival Olympiakos 69-67.

Olympiakos guard and Greek superstar Theodoros Papaloukas missed the potential game-tying layup at the buzzer.

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Josh Childress, whom led Olympiakos with 23 points, talked about the fans’ behavior after the game, “This did not help (our) team at all … the moment you play and you have found a rhythm, you cannot stop because (of violence) in the stands,” said Childress. “The violence we saw today, will make me think real hard over my future in Europe.”

From the AP: The game was interrupted for nearly 20 minutes with 1:25 to play and Panathinaikos leading 60-58.

Olympiakos fans threw a flare, plastic bottles and other items at Panathinaikos’ bench during a timeout, sending the players scampering for safety. A timekeeper was slightly injured and part of the bench and the surrounding court had severe burn marks.

Enraged fans were trying to storm the court and would not listen to the pleas of Olympiakos players for calm. Riot police moved in to contain the supporters. About 200 fans clashed with police after the game and even tried to storm the locker rooms and interview room where the coaches were meeting with the media.

Links and Resources: Panathinaikos wins Greek finals opener amid riot (Yahoo/AP) Discuss: 2009 Greek League Finals- Olympiakos vs. Panathinaikos (Interbasket)