North Carolina Lands Panathinaikos’ Top Prospect!
Alexandros Samodurov has made his decision. The young forward from Panathinaikos will not enter the 2026 NBA Draft after all, and will instead head to the NCAA next season. His destination: one of the most storied programs in American basketball, North Carolina and its legendary Tar Heels.
NEWS: Panathinaikos’ Alex Samodurov has committed to North Carolina, Alex Saratsis and Giorgos Panou of Octagon tell DraftExpress.
The 7-foot, 21-year-old Greek power forward brings coveted shot-blocking and floor-spacing, along with significant FIBA and Euroleague experience. pic.twitter.com/foyB8QivBF
— Jonathan Givony (@DraftExpress) May 30, 2026
The news was reported by Jonathan Givony. Samodurov, 21, will play in the ACC at Chapel Hill, an institution that has produced generations of NBA stars. A bold choice for a player looking to accelerate his development away from the EuroLeague.
Nationality:
A Greek and International Frontcourt for the Tar Heels
At North Carolina, Samodurov will not be the only Greek player. He will be reunited with his compatriot Neoklis Avdalas, another rising Greek prospect who recently left Virginia Tech to join UNC. The two players will form a promising Greek duo in the frontcourt of the Tar Heels. They will also play alongside Sayon Keita, one of the top prospects from FC Barcelona.
This season with Panathinaikos under Ergin Ataman, Samodurov appeared in only 10 EuroLeague games, averaging a modest 2.6 points and 0.7 rebounds per game. Limited playing time that likely explains his decision to cross the Atlantic in search of more consistency and visibility.
The Greek player already has notable international experience, having participated in World Cup qualification windows with the national team, as well as various youth competitions. A solid foundation he intends to build on as he looks to reach the next level in his development.
His arrival at North Carolina reflects a growing trend: young European talents choosing the NCAA as a springboard to the highest level, preferring the new salaries of American college basketball to a bench role in the EuroLeague.
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