Zeljko Obradovic returns to Panathinaikos on a three-year contract
Zeljko Obradovic has officially returned to Panathinaikos BC, signing a three-year deal after a 14-year hiatus. The Serbian coach was presented at the Telekom Center in Athens on June 22, 2026, in an event attended by thousands of fans. Team owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos confirmed the appointment, highlighting the historic significance of the reunion. Reports on the financial terms of the contract vary, with some sources citing total earnings of 10.5 million euros and others reporting 12 million euros over the three-year period. Obradovic will be assisted by Mike Batiste, Josep Maria Izquierdo, and Aleksandar Matovic, with Dimitris Diamantidis expected to take on an expanded role within the organization. During his previous tenure from 1999 to 2012, Obradovic led the club to five EuroLeague titles and numerous domestic trophies.