Panathinaikos’ history, combined with the composition of the roster and, of course, the presence of Zeljko Obradovic, left Isaac Bonga in no doubt that the “Greens” are the best environment for him as he enters this new stage of his career.

“That’s what brought me here—it’s the team’s history. And, of course, the way the team has been put together. I believe that, at this point in my career, everything has fallen into place in such a way that my decision to come here is definitely the right one,” the 27-year-old forward said initially.

When asked about his reunion with Željko Obradović, with whom he played at Partizan, Bonga highlighted the Serbian coach’s ability to lead his teams to the top: “He pays tremendous attention to detail. If he has a good team of players who really know how to play the game, I believe that’s the missing piece. He’s the kind of person who won’t just lead you to victories, but will lead you to winning titles. I think that’s really important.”

Having played in the NBA and the EuroLeague and having won titles at both the club and national levels, the German forward explained which aspect of his game he believes will help him the most at Panathinaikos AKTOR: “I believe it’s my versatility. My ability to adapt to games, opponents, and the environment. I think that will be one of the most important qualities I’ll bring to the team. And of course, the fact that I’m a player who will always give 100% in every game.”

As for the playing qualities he hopes to add to the “clover’s” game, Bonga noted: “Even greater versatility, even greater intensity. Especially on a team that plays so aggressively on both ends of the court, that plays at a high tempo and with great tenacity on defense. I want to be one of the players who sets the pace for this style of play.”

He also mentioned the atmosphere at the Telekom Center Athens, which he has already experienced as an opponent, expressing his eagerness to now experience it as a Panathinaikos AKTOR player: “Having that atmosphere on my side, I believe, will give me even greater momentum and extra energy when you have fans like that cheering you on. People know I experienced something similar in Serbia, but now, in a different environment, it will be just as special.”

In closing, he sent a message to the Panathinaikos fans: “I can’t wait for the first game to start, and I hope you’re ready for what will truly be a great season.”

*photo source: KYPE