 He recorded 7 points and 6 assists with only one turnover, playing against future NBA super star, MVP Derrick Rose.Koponen began his mandatory military service in the Lahti Military Academy in October 2007, participating in a special military service built for professional athletes such as Finnish tennis player Jarkko Nieminen.The Finnish League 2007–08 season began slowly, with Koponen trying to adapt to the military recruit training.