By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
In the midst of a demanding offseason, Panathinaikos OPAP searching for a big-time addition has shortlisted Eric Paschall.
Paschall, 25, is a veteran of three NBA seasons. Between the Golden State Warriors and Utah Jazz, he made his way to 162 NBA games. The total includes 62 appearances in 2021-22 producing 5.5 points, 1.8 rebounds, 0.6 assists, 0.2 steals, and 0.1 blocks per game for the Jazz.
In 2019, he was selected with the 41st overall pick in the NBA draft by the Warriors. His college career included helping Villanova win the 2018 NCAA championship as a junior. He had moved from Fordham to the Wildcats as a sophomore.
Utah not extending a qualifying offer turned the defensive specialist into an unrestricted free agent this offseason. Considering his options and attracting interest from overseas, moving his talents to the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague is a possibility with the Greens eager to add him to the 2022-23 squad.
So far, Panathinaikos has officially tabbed Paris Lee, Panagiotis Kalaitzakis, Marius Grigonis, Nate Wolters, Derrick Williams, Andrew Andrews, and Arturas Gudaitis, while Jeremy Evans, Leonidas Kaselakis, Nemanja Nedovic, Daryl Macon Jr., Ioannis Papapetrou, Okaro White, and Vassilis Kavvadas exited. Potentially landing Paschall would deliver a huge boost to the projected roster of new head coach Dejan Radonjic.
The intention to bring in Paschall was first reported by the Greek outlet SDNA.
The next season will feature Panathinaikos in the EuroLeague at the international level and the Stoiximan Basket League along with the Cup and Super Cup at the domestic level.