Panathinaikos goes all out to secure Final Four: Nigel Hayes-Davis signs massive contract
Nov 29, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Suns forward Nigel Hayes-Davis (21) against the Denver Nuggets in the first half at the Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
The Nigel Hayes-Davis saga is over, landing as one of the biggest midseason moves the EuroLeague has seen in years. After weeks of speculation—and a bidding fight involving Fenerbahçe and Hapoel Tel Aviv—Panathinaikos owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos confirmed on Instagram that the American forward is signed through 2028.
Once again, the Vianex heir reached deep to strengthen his roster, with a clear target in mind: building a group capable of competing for—and winning—the 2026 Final Four, set to be staged in Athens, on Panathinaikos’ home floor.
A complex journey from the NBA to Athens
The road there wasn’t straight. After being released by the Milwaukee Bucks—not long after a late trade from the Phoenix Suns—Nigel Hayes-Davis became the most sought-after free agent in Europe. At one point, Dimitris Giannakopoulos even hinted on social media that a deal might be impossible, before ultimately finding a way to close it.
In the end, Panathinaikos’ financial muscle decided it. The Greens put the strongest offer on the table, locking in a long-term commitment from the reigning Final Four MVP and EuroLeague champion with Fenerbahçe. During his brief NBA return this season, the former Wisconsin standout averaged 1.3 points and 1.2 rebounds in 27 games with the Phoenix Suns, bringing his NBA total to 36 appearances.
Hayes-Davis joins Ergin Ataman’s team as Panathinaikos sits tied for sixth place in the EuroLeague standings with a 16-11 record, fighting to secure one of the six direct playoff qualification spots. On the Greek stage, his new team holds a 15-2 record in Stoiximan GBL, behind rival Olympiakos.
Returning to Europe’s premier competition, the former Team USA training partner will add to his tally of 213 EuroLeague appearances. His arrival represents a significant reinforcement for Panathinaikos in the playoff race and confirms the Athenian club’s European ambitions for this 2025-2026 regular season finish.
Comments (0)