Obradovic is already striking fear into Panathinaikos’ rivals

Obradovic is already striking fear into Panathinaikos’ rivals. Back in action after leaving his post at Partizan midway through last season, the coach is watching his former team make a powerful start. Mathias Lessort is its leading reference point: having overcome his injuries, the French centre is putting up 13.2 points and 7.0 rebounds. He had previously worked with Obradovic at Partizan.

Last season, Panathinaikos endured one of the most painful episodes in its history when Olympiacos lifted the EuroLeague trophy at its home ground, the OAKA. The defeat left supporters—and, above all, owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos—in deep pain.

The club added to a roster that already included Kendrick Nunn, Kostas Sloukas, Nigel Hayes-Davis, Mathias Lessort and Juancho Hernangómez. Four rounds of EuroLeague action have been enough to show the new pieces fitting in. The schedule has also helped: Panathinaikos played its first four games at home.

The team is 4-0, with a +83 points differential, its best start to a season in 19 years. That run has come without Nunn or Sloukas, and with Juancho Hernangómez appearing in just one game. Panathinaikos has also won all four games without the injured Nunn and Sloukas, with Juancho featuring once and Hayes-Davis twice.

The first road game is scheduled for this Tuesday against Partizan. Obradovic will not be entirely on unfamiliar ground. Seven of Panathinaikos’ first eight games are being played at the OAKA. The season is still young, but the team is already making an impression through its results, its depth and Obradovic’s presence.