Isaac Bonga discussed his move to Panathinaikos, his reunion with Zeljko Obradovic and the qualities he believes can help the Greek powerhouse challenge for EuroLeague success.
The German international forward also shared his excitement about experiencing the famous Panathinaikos atmosphere at Telekom Center Athens and explained what he hopes to bring to the team during the upcoming season.
Why Isaac Bonga chose Panathinaikos
Bonga’s move to Athens is one of the latest notable EuroLeague transactions this summer, as the German forward joins Panathinaikos as part of the club’s ambitious new project. The versatile forward explained that several factors influenced his decision, with the club’s history and direction playing a major role.
“What made me come here is the history of the club. Obviously, the way the team has been built as well. I believe that, at this point in my career, everything aligned in such a way that coming here was definitely the right decision,” Bonga said.
𝑾𝒆𝒍𝒄𝒐𝒎𝒆 𝒕𝒐 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝑮𝑹𝑬𝑬𝑵 𝒇𝒂𝒎𝒊𝒍𝒚 𝑰𝒔𝒂𝒂𝒄 𝑩𝒐𝒏𝒈𝒂 ☘️
— Panathinaikos BC (@Paobcgr) July 10, 2026
Η ΚΑΕ Παναθηναϊκός AKTOR ανακοινώνει την απόκτηση του Ίζακ Μπόνγκα για τα επόμενα τρία χρόνια.
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Panathinaikos BC AKTOR announces the signing of Isaac Bonga on a three-year contract.… pic.twitter.com/m3Fuc7mDbH
Isaac Bonga excited to reunite with Zeljko Obradovic
One of the biggest factors behind Bonga’s move to Panathinaikos was the opportunity to work with Zeljko Obradovic once again.
He previously played under the legendary Serbian coach at Partizan, where he developed into one of the most reliable two-way players in European basketball. Bonga believes Obradovic’s attention to detail and championship mentality can make the difference.
“He pays tremendous attention to detail. If he has a good group of players who truly understand how to play the game, I believe that’s the missing piece. He’s the kind of coach who won’t just lead you to victories, he’ll lead you to championships. I think that’s something really important.”
Isaac Bonga explains what he will bring to Panathinaikos
Having experience in both the NBA and EuroLeague, while also winning trophies at club and international level, Bonga believes his ability to adapt will be one of his biggest strengths in Athens.
He explained that his versatility and commitment on both ends of the floor will allow him to help Panathinaikos in different ways.
“I believe it’s my versatility. My ability to adapt to games, opponents and different environments. I think that’s going to be one of the biggest things I’ll bring to the team. And, of course, the fact that I’m a player who will always give 100% in every single game.
Bonga believes his style of play fits perfectly with the team’s ambitions.
“Even more versatility, even greater intensity. Especially on a team that plays so aggressively on both ends of the floor, plays at a high pace and with great toughness on defense. I want to be one of the players who sets the tone for that style of basketball.”
Guerschon Yabusele is officially a Panathinaikos player, just like Isaac Bonga and Moustapha Fall, while Brancou Badio is only awaiting the official announcement. 🟢⏳
— Basketball Sphere (@BSphere_) July 8, 2026
With the addition of a point guard, Zeljko Obradovic could complete a scary lineup made entirely of this… pic.twitter.com/JODcltUuft
Bonga ready for Telekom Center Athens atmosphere
During his time with Partizan, Bonga experienced the passion of Serbian basketball and the atmosphere created by one of Europe’s most demanding fan bases.
Now, he is looking forward to experiencing the famous Panathinaikos atmosphere from the other side, as a home player at Telekom Center Athens.
“Having that atmosphere on my side, I believe it’s going to give me an even bigger boost and extra energy when you have fans like that behind you. People know that I experienced something similar in Serbia, but now, in a different environment, it’s going to be just as special. I can’t wait for the first game to begin, and I hope you’re ready for a truly great season.”
