Panathinaikos announced the signing of Branko Badio from Valencia, with the Senegalese guard making his first remarks to “CLUB 1908” as a member of the “Greens.”

The 27-year-old highlighted the reasons he chose the “clover,” one of which was the presence of Željko Obradović on the Panathinaikos bench. Badio praised the Serbian coach, referring to him as a EuroLeague legend.

He then spoke about Kendrick Nunn, as well as the importance of the energy of the Panathinaikos fans.

Here are Branko Badio’s comments in detail

“I’m very happy to be part of a team like this, in the green family, in this environment. I’d say this is a team that competes for titles, so I’m very happy and very excited about what this new chapter in my career will bring.”

Regarding how important the presence of Željko Obradović was in his decision, he noted: “I’d say he played a very important role, because he’s a world-renowned coach, a EuroLeague legend, who has won titles at every level. For me, the fact that he came here as head coach was very important in taking the next step in my career. That helped me make my final decision, and I believe it’s the next step toward becoming an even better player.”

During the EuroLeague playoffs, Brancu Badio engaged in epic battles with Kendrick Nunn, as he was tasked with guarding him. The 27-year-old guard expressed his delight that he’ll now have him as a teammate: “That’s great, because he’s a great player, an exceptional scorer. I hope he continues to do what he does best, and we’ll support him, just as we’ll support one another.”

As for the goals he hopes to achieve with Panathinaikos AKTOR, he said: “I’d say to compete at the highest level and try to win as much as possible.”

In closing, Bandio spoke highly of the “clover” fans and expressed his eagerness to play for them: “I’d like to tell them to keep doing what they’re doing, because this is one of the best atmospheres in the EuroLeague. I believe that the way they support the team and their cheering give us tremendous energy. I think that’s great. It’s really very important for the team.”

*photo source: paobc.gr