Meridian Sport reports that Valencia is leading the race to sign Wenyen Gabriel, after his tenure with Panathinaikos Athens, where his role faded following a EuroLeague Final Four appearance. The 28-year-old South Sudanese center, who began the season with Maccabi Tel Aviv, is unlikely to stay in Athens, drawing interest from multiple European clubs eager to secure his services.
Gabriel’s NBA and EuroLeague Journey
Gabriel’s NBA career included stints with Sacramento, Portland, New Orleans, Brooklyn, the Clippers, the Lakers, and Memphis, before moving to Maccabi and then Panathinaikos, where he contributed significantly during the Final Four. His versatility and rebounding prowess have made him a sought-after talent, despite his uncertain future with the Greens.
Valencia’s Aggressive Pursuit
Valencia’s fast-paced, aggressive playing style matches Gabriel’s athleticism and interior presence, positioning him as an ideal fit for their EuroLeague return. The Spanish club’s proactive approach aims to strengthen their frontcourt, capitalizing on his NBA experience and recent European success to enhance their roster.
Market Interest and Next Steps
Several EuroLeague teams like Crvena zvezda are in the hunt for Gabriel, but Valencia’s early move gives them a clear advantage. His potential exit from Panathinaikos, amid the team’s roster reshuffling, could see him excel in Valencia’s system, marking a significant transfer coup as the new season approaches.
Posted on: 12 June 2025, 14:15 CET
