Panathinaikos Targets Isaac Bonga as Obradovic Return Nears

Reports in Greece say Panathinaikos is already pursuing Isaac Bonga as Zeljko Obradovic prepares for a return to the club, a move that would rank among the biggest comebacks in European basketball. The Serbian coach, who previously won five EuroLeague titles with the Greens, is expected to sign soon.

According to reporter Sotiris Vetakis, Panathinaikos has entered the race for the forward and is considered the frontrunner for his signature, provided he does not land an NBA contract. Bonga had recently been linked with the Detroit Pistons, but those reports have faded, opening the door for EuroLeague clubs to compete for him.

Bonga, 26, is under contract with Partizan Belgrade through 2027, but Serbian reports near the end of the season said his future there was uncertain, with major European teams monitoring him. Last season he became one of the most important forwards in the EuroLeague, averaging 9.9 points, 5.6 rebounds and 1.5 assists.

Because Bonga played under Obradovic at Partizan, Panathinaikos sees him as a natural fit once the coach arrives. The Backdoor Podcast said, "Bonga is one of Panathinaikos' biggest targets in this window," adding that he had already been linked to Olympiacos, but Panathinaikos is ready to offer more and present a significant bid.