Zeljko Obradovic Is Reportedly Set for a Stunning Return to Panathinaikos

Greek reports say Zeljko Obradovic is on the verge of returning to Panathinaikos, with one journalist describing the move as essentially done and another saying it should be finalized within a week. The claim comes after Ergin Ataman's tenure ended, and Greek basketball has been focused on who will replace him at the Athens club.

Sports journalist Spyros Kavaliratros said there was no need for speculation: “Obradovic will be Panathinaikos’ coach.” He added, “This is not an instinct, it is information. I am going with 99.9%.” He compared the expected appointment to other anticipated EuroLeague moves, saying the situation is nearly certain.

According to Grigoris Papavasiliou, Panathinaikos was not the only club interested in Obradovic. He said Real Madrid and Barcelona also made offers, while Milan and Partizan were monitoring his situation. Obradovic left Partizan during the season despite efforts to convince him to stay.

Papavasiliou also said the relationship between Obradovic and Panathinaikos owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos has been repaired, and that the coach would have a “blank check” to shape the roster and budget however he wants. Obradovic previously coached Panathinaikos from 1999 to 2012, when he turned the club into a European powerhouse and won five EuroLeague titles. In total, the 66-year-old has won nine European championships, the most ever.