Isaac Bonga Signs with Panathinaikos, Joining Coach Obradovic

Isaac Bonga, a prominent name in the EuroLeague this summer, has activated his buyout clause from Partizan Belgrade for 700,000 euros and is set to join Panathinaikos. Despite earlier reports suggesting Real Madrid would secure the forward, Panathinaikos outpaced other interested clubs including Hapoel Tel Aviv, Barcelona, and Olympiacos. This move reunites Bonga with his former coach at Partizan, Željko Obradović, who identified him as a key target.

The 26-year-old forward had hoped to return to the NBA but did not find the right opportunity, leading him to continue his career in Europe. Bonga ensured he had exit clauses each summer during his contract with Panathinaikos, although the contract length was not disclosed. The decision was influenced by the club's project, his expected role, and ambitions to win the EuroLeague.

Last season, Bonga averaged 10.0 points, 5.7 rebounds, 1.5 assists, and 0.9 steals per game in the EuroLeague. Panathinaikos considers this signing one of the most sought-after acquisitions of the offseason.