Panathinaikos was described as “a second home” for Zeljko Obradović by his close associate, Josep María Iskierdo. The Spanish coach, who followed him from Partizan to Athens, is primarily responsible for the “Greens’” defense. Speaking to the Serbian outlet Meridian Sport, he discussed:
Zeljko Obradović’s presence at Panathinaikos: “They know him, they love him. It’s essentially like a second home to him, so I imagine everything will go well.”
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His own adjustment to Athens: “I just got here a month ago. I’m making a fresh start and slowly adjusting.”
On his contract with Panathinaikos: “I had to work for it! I was really happy. I knew about Zeljko’s time at Panathinaikos, and he always spoke highly of the team. As soon as he called me, I joined him. When it comes to basketball—and I’m not saying this as a joke—Spanish basketball is among the best in Europe, and in the world. That’s why it’s only natural for foreign clubs—and in this case, Serbian teams—to look to Spain and hire Spanish coaches.”
On the differences between Partizan and Panathinaikos regarding Obradović: “Partizan is Partizan. It’s his country, his city, his team, his friends, his family… He spent 13 seasons of his life here. Partizan is something special to him.”
His own memories of Partizan: “I felt great. I had a wonderful experience. I’m very proud to have worked there, and I’ll always be a part of this amazing club.”
On working with players he also had at Partizan, such as Lesor and Bonga: “You always try to work with people you trust.”
*photo source: KYPE
