Željko Obradović returns to Panathinaikos as head coach

Serbian coach Željko Obradović, the most decorated trainer in European club basketball, has signed a three‑year contract to resume his role as head coach of Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos. The club announced the appointment on social media, with owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos posting a photo of the two and the caption “the story continues.” Obradović’s new deal runs through the 2028‑29 season.

Obradović previously led Panathinaikos from 1999 to 2012, guiding the team to five EuroLeague crowns, 11 Greek league titles and seven Greek Cups. In total he has won nine EuroLeague championships with five different clubs. After a recent stint at Partizan Belgrade (2021‑2025), where he captured two ABA League titles, he left in November 2025 and was without a club until this appointment.

Panathinaikos, after a period of under‑performance and the departure of Ergin Ataman, sees Obradović’s return as a historic moment for the club and Greek basketball. Reports from the Turkish press quote a €12 million total salary (about €4 million per year), making it one of the highest‑paid coaching contracts in European basketball.

The coach emphasized his continued motivation and connection with the club’s family, while the owner described the day as “more than a historic day” for Panathinaikos.