Shorts, Hayes-Davis and Osman lead Panathinaikos back in the Greek playoff finals

Panathinaikos is back in the Greek playoff finals. After winning the first leg, the Greens wrapped up their semifinal against PAOK Thessaloniki with a 96-84 victory in Thessaloniki. A solid collective performance, driven by one man who was on fire in the second half.

David, Shorts and Osman, the architect of a decisive comeback

Cedi Osman delivered the best performance of his Greek league career with 29 points, including five three-pointers made. An offensive masterclass that swung the game. Jerian Grant and Mathias Lessort each added 15 points, while TJ Shorts and Nigel Hayes-Davis chipped in with 14 apiece.

A career-high performance in the books for @cediosman 🏹💪🏼#WeTheGreens #Club1908 #StoiximanGBL pic.twitter.com/x594HQMJE1

— Panathinaikos BC (@Paobcgr) May 30, 2026

Yet PAOK had held their own in the first half. Thanks to their transition game and the vision of Patrick Beverley, who finished with 14 points and 11 assists, the hosts led 47-44 at halftime. Cleveland Melvin (22 points) and Clifford Omoruyi (19 points, 7 rebounds) had also contributed to keeping PAOK in contention.

A turning point in the third quarter

But the second half changed everything. Osman scored 14 of his 29 points in the third quarter alone, allowing Panathinaikos to retake the lead. The Greens finished the game with 13 three-pointers made in total, an outside efficiency that ultimately broke Thessaloniki’s resistance.

The fourth quarter confirmed Athenian dominance, with PAOK unable to find the resources needed to turn the tide.

A finals appearance that has become a tradition

This qualification extends a historic streak: Panathinaikos has reached the finals every year since 2003. A symbol of the consistency and ambition of the Athenian club, who now prepare to compete for another national title.