By John Rammas/ info@eurohoops.net
Ioannis Papapetrou talked to Eurohoops about returning to Panathinaikos following the four-year run from 2018 to 2022.
Papapetrou, 29, is preparing alongside his teammates to start official action through Greece’s Super Cup in Rhodes. The Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season Round 1 will be next with a home game opposite his former team and archrival of the Greens Olympiacos on October 6.
“We must prepare to be at our best and begin the season with a win,” he told Eurohoops previewing the derby of the eternal enemies, “I believe we can achieve the win. Talent and quality are there, despite us being a brand new team.”
Hiring Ergin Ataman as the new head coach sparked a massive rebuild. Besides Papapetrou, other summer signings included Olek Balcerowski, Jerian Grant, Kyle Guy, Juan Hernangomez, Mathias Lessort, Kostas Sloukas, and Luca Vildoza.
“Certainly, the feeling is different,” Papapetrou compared previous and current situations, “We have a very good team this season, following many solid moves in the summer. That is my priority. Everyone on the team, including myself, wants to be successful this season. We are looking forward to the season.”
Inking a two-year contract to return reunited Papapetrou with the Greens loyals.
“Panathinaikos fans always supported and loved me. I love them too,” Papapetrou described the relationship, “I am happy to be here and part of all this. We will try to make them happy.”
Spending the tenth EuroLeague campaign of his career with Partizan Mozzart Bet, he averaged 5.4 points and 2.3 rebounds per contest over 38 appearances, including 24 starts.