Zeljko Obradovic: “Panathinaikos and its culture are something special”

25/08/202620:25

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Panathinaikos is among the top contenders for the upcoming EuroLeague

Coach Zeljko Obradovic spoke to the media after Panathinaikos’ first practice of the season.

He began by discussing the many players currently absent due to the FIBA window:

“I am also looking forward to the world seeing our players, but so far this is not possible, as we have seven players with their national teams, plus one more who is dealing with a problem. Nevertheless, we have started our preparation. We have some new guys here who are helping us and everything is going smoothly. We are working normally and waiting for everyone to return next week so that we can continue working and prepare properly for the new season.”

On the motivation and high expectations surrounding the team:

“This is something completely normal for me. Everyone understands the quality of the players we have, but the point is to function as a team. For this reason, we must be united. Unfortunately, we do not have many days at our disposal to train together, but that is how things are and I will never complain about it. I have already emphasized to the staff and the players that the demands are very high, which I consider completely reasonable. Our goal is to stay united in difficult moments, understand that the season is long and focus on the daily work, which is always the most important element.”

On the team’s new signings:

“It is still very early. These are players who know the game well and are here precisely because of their quality. We signed them for this reason, so there is no doubt about their value. However, as always, it will take time to build chemistry, communicate and work. Let’s go step by step and everything will be fine.”

On whether he is satisfied with the overall structure of the team:

“Yes, I am very happy. I will only tell you this: for all of us, it was very easy to choose this place. We feel at home and that is particularly positive. Everyone understands what we have to do. Our role as a club and staff is to help the athletes in every way possible so that they can remain focused exclusively on basketball. That is our goal.”

Finally, on the importance of having so many experienced figures within the club, he said:

“It is fundamental. As you know, we have people on our side who have made enormous contributions to the club: Alvertis, Diamantidis and Mike are here, while there are also players I have worked with before. This will help us a lot. Panathinaikos and its culture are something special. We must return to this mentality so that we can once again become the team that everyone understands what it represents, not only in basketball, but in every aspect of life, setting an example, especially for young people. The Panathinaikos world knows this very well. Therefore, we must also understand it internally and rise to the occasion, representing the Club as a role model at every level.”

Below are some images from the practice session:

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