Gerson Yabousele has been in Greece on behalf of Panathinaikos since Thursday afternoon (July 16). The “Greens’” high-profile signing received a warm welcome from the team’s fans, and he also sent his own message via the club’s social media accounts.

Speaking to members of the press at “Eleftherios Venizelos” Airport, the French forward/center mentioned, among other things, Zeljko Obradović, who was a decisive factor in his move to Panathinaikos. He also spoke about the… push his “brother”—as he described him—Matías Lesor gave him to see him play for the “Greens.”

In detail:

He began by saying: “I’m excited to be here, to get to know this new team and these new fans. Returning to the EuroLeague and being a part of this team is truly very important to me. Honestly, I’m really happy to be here.”

What did Coach Obradović tell you to convince you to come to Panathinaikos? “He’s a great coach. I think everyone knows what he’s contributed to the sport. He’s a truly great coach, and I can’t wait to play under his guidance. I hope we have an exceptional season.”

What motivated you to return to Europe? “I had so many motivations. Of course, the team’s goals and what it wants to achieve. Also, the fact that I’ll be playing alongside Matias and Mustafa played a significant role. Even the fans who sent me messages every day urging me to join Panathinaikos contributed a little to my decision. But overall, the team’s ambitions and the opportunity to return to Europe were the most important reasons.”

Did you talk to anyone before coming to Athens today? “Yes, of course. I spoke with Matías, with Mustafa, and with the coach. They were all trying to encourage me and convince me to join this team, because it has very big goals it wants to achieve. And I wanted to be part of that effort.”

Panathinaikos fans are very happy to see you today. They’ve organized a huge welcome for you. What’s your message to them? “I’m truly happy to be with them, too. I remember when I played against them in the Final Four, back when I was with Real Madrid. I know the fans will be right there with us every time. Being part of that whole atmosphere is very important to me. I can’t wait to step onto the court and play for them.”

Gerson, now you’ll be facing Evan Fournier as an opponent. Do you have a message for him? “Evan Fournier is one of my guys. There’s no animosity, just love. I can’t wait to play against him because he’s a player like me who loves competition. It’ll definitely be something special to face him, but I have nothing but love for him, and I wish him the best.”

Did you talk to him specifically about this? “Yes, we discussed it for a bit. We had a very good conversation about our goals. We’re still in touch, and we had a really nice chat. That was also one of the reasons I came here.”

What was Matías’s first reaction when he found out you were coming? “He’s my brother. We’ve been in touch all year. To be honest, even back in February, before the trade deadline, we were trying to make something happen. The fact that I’ll be here with my brother is truly special. And now that Mustafa has joined the team, I have both my brothers here with me. I know we’ll get along great on the court.”

Gerson, you know about the Panathinaikos fans. Have you already learned any chants or songs they sing at the OAKA? “I don’t want to cause any trouble, but Mario Hezonja used to sing some of the chants when we were together at Real Madrid. I don’t know them perfectly yet, but I can’t wait to learn them, have fun with the fans, and return the love they show us with their support every night. I’m really happy to be here.”

*photo source: INTIME