Obradović Returns to Coach Panathinaikos on Three-Year Deal

Legendary Serbian coach Željko Obradović is making a highly anticipated return to Panathinaikos, the club where he achieved significant success. The Greek basketball powerhouse has officially announced a three-year deal with the 66-year-old strategist. Obradović previously led Panathinaikos from 1999 to 2012, guiding them to four EuroLeague championships during his tenure. His return marks a new chapter for the club, replacing Ergin Ataman, who coached PAO for the past three seasons. Serbian media reports suggest Obradović's contract is worth 10.5 million euros over three years and grants him complete autonomy in team building. During his initial spell with Panathinaikos, Obradović coached several notable Lithuanian players, including Ramūnas Šiškauskas, Robertas Javtokas, and Šarūnas Jasikevičius, all of whom celebrated EuroLeague titles under his guidance. Obradović's most recent coaching position was with Partizan Belgrade, where he coached from 2021 to 2025. However, he sensationally departed the Serbian club early last season following a string of poor results and a reportedly difficult atmosphere within the team. His return to Athens is expected to reignite Panathinaikos's ambitions in European basketball.