Rick Pitino discussed Zeljko Obradovic’s return to Panathinaikos, praising the Serbian coach’s legacy and the club’s ambitious future under Dimitris Giannakopoulos in an interview with SKWEEK.
The former Panathinaikos coach also explained why his time in Athens remains one of the most memorable chapters of his 54-year coaching career.
Rick Pitino on Zeljko Obradovic’s Panathinaikos return
Zeljko Obradovic’s return has become one of the biggest EuroLeague transactions and coaching moves of the summer, with Panathinaikos launching one of the most ambitious projects in European basketball.
“I’m very excited for Panathinaikos. Getting Coach Obradovic back brings great history, and I’m really happy for him. He has given so much to European basketball and Panathinaikos. To finish his career with a big budget and a great franchise, where he won five championships, is wonderful for him and the fans.”
The former Panathinaikos coach also explained why championships are only one part of Obradovic’s greatness, highlighting the respect he has earned throughout his career.
“First, it’s championships. That’s the ultimate measure. Then, it’s the respect of the players. Coach Obradovic is tough, but he treats everybody equally and with great respect. He has earned the respect of the players, the fans and the media. It’s a wonderful way to end a very storied career.”
Isaac Bonga had high praise for Zeljko Obradovic: words that Panathinaikos fans will surely love to hear. 💚https://t.co/xqporCXzYg
— Basketball Sphere (@BSphere_) July 10, 2026
Read more here. 🔼🔼#paobc pic.twitter.com/2YDGV5dgO6
Pitino reflects on his relationship with Panathinaikos fans and owner
Pitino also looked back on his own experience with Panathinaikos, explaining how much he enjoyed his time with the club despite working with a smaller budget compared to the current era.
“Panathinaikos’ owner is very colourful and passionate, and I had a great relationship with him. He treated me very well and with great respect. We had a low budget, around $12 million, but I thoroughly enjoyed those two years. The fans feed off his passion. When I watch Panathinaikos on television, it brings back so many memories. You don’t see owners or fans act that way in the United States.”
The American coach admitted that moving to Greece later in his career became one of the best decisions he ever made.
“I had coached professional and college basketball for a long time, but I had never been to Greece or followed the EuroLeague. I thought, ‘Why not act young and explore new horizons?’ It was the best decision of my life. My experience with Panathinaikos and Greece was as good as any period of my 54 years in coaching. The Greek people were sensational to me. I love them, and they showed me great love in return.”
Pitino revealed that his connection with Panathinaikos remains so strong that he still adjusts his schedule to watch the team whenever possible.
“I speak highly of the Greek people all the time. I watch Panathinaikos whenever I can because the games usually start around two in the afternoon. Sometimes I move practice from 2:30 to 4:00 just so I can watch them.”
Rick Pitino believes Panathinaikos’ investment can bring success
With Panathinaikos significantly increasing its budget and building one of the most ambitious projects in European basketball, Pitino explained that financial power alone does not guarantee trophies.
“It’s not always about the budget. The New York Mets have the second-highest payroll in baseball and a terrible record. With Coach Obradovic and Panathinaikos’ marketing, however, I believe the money will be well spent.”
Pitino also praised Dimitris Giannakopoulos for investing not only in the roster but also in improving the overall experience for Panathinaikos fans.
“You have to give Dimitris (Giannakopoulos) a lot of credit because he has invested back into the fans. OAKA is now a beautiful venue with great lounges, and he has invested in the product. When you put money back into the product, you reap the rewards. With great management and Coach Obradovic, everything is in place for more Final Fours and championships.”
