Panathinaikos head coach Zeljko Obradovic has called for a return to the basketball club's traditional mindset as pre-season preparations got underway in Athens.
Speaking at the team's official media day for the start of pre-season training, the Serbian coach revealed that work had commenced despite eight players being currently unavailable for full group practice.
Panathinaikos BC is a professional basketball team based in Athens, Greece, competing in both the Greek Basketball League and the EuroLeague. Obradovic, one of European basketball's most decorated head coaches, previously led the club during a historically successful era that yielded multiple continental titles.
Squad absences and high season expectations
Obradovic explained that seven players are currently away representing their national teams, while one additional player is dealing with an unspecified problem. Despite these absences, he noted that several young players have stepped in to assist in training and that early sessions have progressed smoothly.
The head coach added that he expects all squad members to return next week, allowing the team to continue their work and prepare properly for the upcoming campaign. He acknowledged that high expectations surrounding the roster are completely normal given the individual talent available, but stressed that success depends on functioning as a single unit.
While noting that the squad will have limited days to train together before competitive action begins, Obradovic stated that he would not complain about the schedule. He emphasized that he has already informed his staff and players that demands will be high, urging them to remain united during difficult periods across a long season and stay focused on daily work.
Summer transfers and club management structure
Addressing the club's summer transfer activity, Obradovic said it was still early in the squad integration process. He praised the new additions as experienced players who understand the game and were selected specifically for their quality, leaving no doubt about their ability. However, he cautioned that building team coordination requires time, open discussion, and a step-by-step approach.
Obradovic expressed strong satisfaction with the current organizational structure of the team, noting how easy it was for everyone to assemble over the summer months. He described the club environment as feeling like home, adding that the primary goal of the coaching staff is to assist the players in every way possible so they can focus exclusively on basketball.
Role of club legends and team culture
The Serbian coach highlighted the fundamental importance of having experienced figures with a deep history at the club involved with the team. He specifically cited the presence of former Panathinaikos stalwarts Frangiskos Alvertis, Dimitris Diamantidis, and Mike Batiste, alongside several players he had previously coached, as a major advantage for the squad.
Obradovic concluded by emphasizing that Panathinaikos possesses a unique culture that everyone within the club must embrace once again. He stated that the team needs to rediscover a mindset that represents the club's standards both in basketball and in everyday life, serving as an example for young people. He noted that while Panathinaikos fans understand this identity well, the squad must internally rise to the occasion and represent the club as a role model across all levels.
