After years of struggling in the Euroleague, Olympiacos and Panathinaikos have emerged as serious contenders to dominate the competition. Olympiacos, in particular, has made significant moves by signing Evan Fournier, a key player they hope will lead them to their first Euroleague title since 2013. Their rivals, Panathinaikos, responded with the high-profile signing of Cheddi Osman, signaling their intent to maintain their dominance, especially in the eyes of owner Dimitrios Yanakopoulos, who sees this as a symbol of superiority.
Greek basketball seemed to be in decline until recently, with both teams failing to make an impact in the Euroleague. However, last season marked a turning point, with both teams reaching the top of European basketball, and Panathinaikos even lifting the Euroleague trophy. Olympiacos' recent success, including multiple Final Four appearances, has come after years of financial and professional struggles, culminating in their resurgence after a period in the minor leagues.
Olympiacos has built a reputation for constructing teams that perform beyond expectations, even after losing star players like Sasha Vezenkov and Kostas Sloukas. Their acquisition of Fournier is seen as a vital move to not just reach the Final Four, but to win it all. Fournier's arrival, greeted with great enthusiasm by the fans, has reinforced the belief that Olympiacos could bring the Euroleague trophy back to Piraeus.
Panathinaikos, after a 12-year absence from the Final Four, also made clear their ambitions by signing players like Lorenzo Brown and Omer Yurtseven. However, Osman’s signing is the standout, not only strengthening their forward position but also serving as a symbolic victory over Real Madrid, who had pursued him. With their revamped roster and renewed confidence, Panathinaikos is once again positioned as a strong contender to dominate European basketball alongside Olympiacos.
ADD A COMMENT :