Transfers reveal that the team is entering dynamically
Transfers reveal that the team is entering dynamically
The 2025-26 EuroLeague season finds Panathinaikos in a very different position compared to recent years. The team from the “Shamrock” shows determination to return strongly to the top of Europe — and the reason is not just the signings or luck, but the strategic plan laid out by coach Ergin Ataman.
The change is visible: from trial to restart, from “what can be done” to “what we want to achieve.”
This is an extensive report on how this new era is being built — which transfers were made, the role of team leader Kostas Sloukas, and the “statement” game against Real Madrid.
Situation before the season: A storm of Changes and Expectations
Situation before the season: A storm of Changes and Expectations
Panathinaikos entered the new season not simply with goals, but with an urgent need for a comeback. The management — led by Dimitris Giannakopoulos — had already pointed out that participation in the EuroLeague alone was not enough; a return to the top level was necessary.
The appointment of Ergin Ataman as head coach was the first major move. The Turkish coach, with a rich European background, takes charge in a process of reconstruction.
At the same time, the transfers reveal that the team is entering dynamically: players with experience, quality, and personality have become “green.”
However, as noted, the start was not without problems. Injuries, lack of cohesion during preparation, and the pressure of the comeback created uncertainty at the beginning.
Building the Team: Signings, Roles, and Coaching DNA
Building the Team: Signings, Roles, and Coaching DNA
Signings
Signings
Among the “major” moves of the summer was the acquisition of Kostas Sloukas, a leadership figure coming to guide the team’s return.
Also, the addition of players like Juancho Hernangómez (whose contribution increased in 2025) and Cedi Osman — as highlighted in reports about the win over Anadolu Efes — emphasizes the roster’s quality and depth.
From a coaching perspective, Ataman brought a clear mentality: “win now” combined with long-term structure. “From chaos to culture,” as one article described it.
Roles and Function
Roles and Function
Sloukas’ presence is not merely symbolic. The experienced guard assumes a guiding role — both on the court and in the locker room culture. “He came to lead,” the same article notes.
Ataman’s tactics aim for high intensity in both defense and offense, emphasizing clean execution and fewer mistakes. The roster’s ability to cover multiple positions, combining youth and experience, creates a tool capable of execution.
The Wave of the Comeback: Example of a Turnaround and Statement
The Wave of the Comeback: Example of a Turnaround and Statement
One of the most emblematic moments of this season came in an away win over Efes: “Career-best Osman, vintage Sloukas lead Panathinaikos to win at Efes.” This victory was not just a success — it was proof that the team travels with confidence and clearly defined roles.
Even more telling was the match against Real Madrid: on March 6, 2025, Panathinaikos clearly imposed itself in Athens — “Madrid lose in Athens.”
In that game, Real struggled from the start, with poor perimeter shooting (just 3/26 from three), and Panathinaikos capitalized.
This win became a “statement” — showing that the team does not fear top opponents, plays with conviction, and has the ability to strike at the highest level.
Leaders and the Key to Success
Leaders and the Key to Success
Ergin Ataman
Ergin Ataman
Ataman’s coaching style combines passion, discipline, and freedom for the players. As one article stated, “the great coach who does not sit for anyone.”
His ability to manage experienced players, impose rules, and at the same time allow creativity demonstrates that the team exists — and exists with purpose.
Kostas Sloukas
Kostas Sloukas
Sloukas emerged as “the man for big moments.” According to a publication, he took on the leadership role and the experience that the team lacked.
The message is clear: the team does not rely solely on young talents but on players who know what it takes to win.
The chemistry with the coach and his conscious acceptance of his role within the team provide an additional advantage.
Challenges and Areas for Improvement
Challenges and Areas for Improvement
Despite the optimism, the team faces not only opportunities but also difficulties:
- The rest of the season will be tested by injuries, fatigue, and the packed EuroLeague schedule.
- Consistency in performance — especially in away games — remains a concern.
- Defensive initiative and management of critical situations need to be consolidated — one “big” game is not enough; continuity is required.
What this means for Panathinaikos and Greek Basketball
What this means for Panathinaikos and Greek Basketball
Panathinaikos’ restart sends messages:
- Greece re-enters the frame of top European basketball.
- The team can act as a “lever” for upgrading the Greek league — if it succeeds at the European level.
- Panathinaikos’ “new era” is not just about the present — it lays the foundation for the future.
Success will have multiple effects: on the court, in the market, and in the team’s image.
The comeback that is not just ambitious — It is planned
The comeback that is not just ambitious — It is planned
At a time when many clubs are “chasing” the top, Panathinaikos achieves something more: it is recreating its identity.
With Ergin Ataman at the helm, Sloukas as the leader, and a roster combining experience and quality, the team aims to transition from “maybe” to “sure.”
Wins like those against Real Madrid or Efes are not just statistics — they are milestones. If consistency comes, the “comeback” will not just be a success but a level change.
