Mike Batiste Returns to Panathinaikos as Assistant Coach Reuniting with Obradovic

Mike Batiste, the legendary center of Panathinaikos, has officially returned to the Greek basketball club as an assistant coach under a three-year contract. This move reunites him with his former coach, Željko Obradović. Batiste is regarded as one of the greatest players in Panathinaikos history and holds the record for the longest tenure as a foreign player at the club. Over his decade-long career with Panathinaikos, spanning two separate periods, he won a total of 19 titles, including three EuroLeague championships, nine Greek league titles, and seven Greek Cups.

After retiring from professional play in 2014, Batiste pursued a 12-year coaching career in the United States. He began as an assistant coach for the Cleveland Cavaliers' development team, then worked in player development for the Brooklyn Nets. He subsequently served as an assistant coach with the Charlotte Hornets, Orlando Magic, Washington Wizards, and Houston Rockets. Since 2023, he has been part of the Toronto Raptors' coaching staff.

Batiste's return to Panathinaikos coincides with the comeback of another club legend, Dimitris Diamantidis, who has rejoined the team in a management role. Diamantidis is widely considered one of the greatest players in Panathinaikos and European basketball history. This reunion of iconic figures marks a significant moment for the club as it looks to build on its storied legacy.