Momentum is building for Georgios Papagiannis to return to Panathinaikos Athens this summer, with BasketNews sources indicating the 27-year-old Greek center is in deep discussions with the club, as reported on May 25, 2025 (per Eurohoops.net). Papagiannis, who began his professional career with Panathinaikos from 2014-2016 before stints in the NBA and with Fenerbahce and Monaco, could bolster the Greens’ frontcourt after their recent EuroLeague semifinal exit (82-76 vs. Fenerbahce, per prior recap). His potential homecoming would mark a significant move for the 2024 champions aiming to rebuild.
Papagiannis averaged 7.3 points, 3.4 rebounds, and an 8.8 PIR in 16.9 minutes per game with Monaco this season, but his standout performance came in Game 5 against Barcelona, where he scored 17 points, grabbed 5 rebounds, and went 3-for-3 from three in just 19 minutes, helping Monaco reach the Final Four (per euroleaguebasketball.net). A member of the Greek national team for the 2024 Paris Olympics alongside stars like Giannis Antetokounmpo (per prior web results), Papagiannis brings defensive solidity and improved shooting, making him a valuable asset for Panathinaikos’ title aspirations.
If Papagiannis returns, he’d join a revamped Panathinaikos squad already set to welcome TJ Shorts (per BasketNews), potentially forming a strong interior presence alongside the new backcourt. His experience with the club—he won multiple Greek League titles before departing in 2016 (per Eurohoops.net)—and his recent playoff impact could provide stability for a team looking to rebound from their Abu Dhabi loss. As Panathinaikos monitors the EuroLeague final between Fenerbahce and Monaco, Papagiannis’ return could be a game-changer for their 2025-26 campaign.
Posted on May 25, 2025
