Željko Obradović returns to Panathinaikos, adds former NBA assistant Mike Batiste

Serbian coach Željko Obradović announced his return to Greek club Panathinaikos, describing the decision as easy and expressing enthusiasm for the new chapter. He thanked owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos for facilitating the comeback and said he aims to bring renewed fire to the team.

Obradović confirmed that former NBA assistant Mike Batiste, who left his role with the Toronto Raptors, will join the Panathinaikos coaching staff on a three‑year contract. He highlighted the importance of communicating his philosophy to players such as Kendrick Nunn, Nigel Hayes‑Davis and Juancho Hernangómez, and welcomed a more competitive Greek league with stronger rivals.

The coach also called for fans to focus on basketball during the intense Panathinaikos‑Olympiacos derby, emphasizing respect for all clubs and the growth of Greek basketball.