Guerschon Yabusele has revealed why he chose Panathinaikos, explaining how the club’s ambitions and his conversation with Zeljko Obradovic influenced his decision to return to the EuroLeague.
The former Real Madrid and NBA player spoke about his decision to join the Greek powerhouse, his expectations under head coach Zeljko Obradovic, his relationship with Mathias Lessort and Evan Fournier, as well as his excitement about playing in front of the famous Panathinaikos fans at OAKA.
Guerschon Yabusele reveals why he chose Panathinaikos
Yabusele admitted that Panathinaikos’ ambitions and the club’s long-term goals were among the main reasons behind his decision to return to Europe.
“I am excited to be here, excited to meet the team and the fans. Coming back to the EuroLeague and playing for this club is something special for me.”
Speaking about his motivation to join Panathinaikos, Yabusele highlighted the club’s objectives and the project being built in Athens.
“I had great motivation. The goal of Panathinaikos and what the club is trying to achieve. Of course, the fact that Fall is here also played an important role. But the goals that the team has made me come back to Europe.”
Zeljko Obradovic and his role at Panathinaikos
The French forward also discussed the opportunity to work with Zeljko Obradovic, one of the most successful coaches in European basketball history.
“He is an excellent coach, everyone knows that and what he has contributed to basketball. I cannot wait to play for him and have a great season here.”
Yabusele revealed that his conversation with Obradovic about his role on the court was an important factor in his decision to join Panathinaikos.
“We have talked about it and we had a nice dialogue and that was another reason why I came here. The conversation I had with Obradovic about the basketball things he wants from me on the court, allow me to keep that between me and him. But be sure that this conversation played an important role in my decision to come to Panathinaikos.”
Guerschon Yabusele has arrived! 🇬🇷💚
— Basketball Sphere (@BSphere_) July 16, 2026
To the delight of the many Panathinaikos fans who welcomed him at the airport in Athens, Yabusele has officially arrived in Greece! #paobc pic.twitter.com/GWCCV09g8h
Yabusele discusses Fournier rivalry and friendship
Yabusele will also face his friend Evan Fournier during the upcoming season, with the two French players expected to compete against each other in Greece. Despite their future battles on the court, Yabusele emphasized the strong relationship between them.
“Evan Fournier is my friend. I don’t have any hate for him. I love him very much. I know how wonderful a person he is and how good of a player he is. We are both very competitive and we want to win. I love him, I can’t wait to play against him and I wish him good luck.”
Panathinaikos fans and OAKA atmosphere
The French forward also spoke about the famous Panathinaikos supporters and his excitement about experiencing the atmosphere at OAKA as a home player.
“I am really happy that I will be with them. I remember when I played against them in the Final Four when I was with Real Madrid. I know that the fans will be behind us every time. Being part of all this atmosphere is something very important for me. I can’t wait to step on the court and play for them.”
Guerschon Yabusele also revealed that he already had some experience with Panathinaikos chants during his time with Real Madrid.
“I want to experience the atmosphere at OAKA. As a Real Madrid player, I sang part of Panathinaikos chants. I don’t want to provoke anyone, but Hezonja was singing some of them when I was at Real Madrid. I don’t know them well yet, but I will learn them. I am really happy to be here.”
"I don't want to cause any trouble, but Mario was singing some of the chants. I don't know them perfectly yet, but I'm looking forward to learning them."
— Basketball Sphere (@BSphere_) July 16, 2026
Mario Hezonja (@mariohezonja) made sure Panathinaikos chants could be heard even in Madrid. 😁💚#paobc pic.twitter.com/3fGFPDuUO1
Yabusele reunites with Lessort after failed attempt to join forces earlier
One of the biggest factors behind Yabusele’s arrival in Athens is his reunion with Mathias Lessort, with whom he has a close relationship.
The French forward revealed that they had discussed the possibility of becoming teammates even before the move happened.
“I was talking with Lessort throughout the whole year. To be honest, even in February, before the trade deadline, we were trying to make something happen and now being here with my brother is something special. And now that Mustafa is also here with the team, I have two of my brothers with me. I know that on the court we will be fine.”
