Panathinaikos announced its second move of the offseason, adding EuroCup breakout star Panagiotis Kalaitzakis, the club announced Saturday. The versatile guard is expected to have a big role with the team next season.
After playing with the junior youth clubs of Aris Thessaloniki, Kalaitzakis began his professional career in the 2016–17 season, in the Greek Basket League, with the senior men’s team of Aris.
He then played for newly promoted Holargos assuming a rotational role despite his young age. On August 28, 2019, he signed with Nevėžis Kėdainiai of the Lithuanian Basketball League.
With his performances in Lithuania, the guard took the next step in his career joining the EuroCup club Lietkabelis of the Lithuanian Basketball League. He averaged 13.0 points, 2.8 rebounds, 2.8 assists, and 1.3 steals in the regular season of EuroCup.
Η ΚΑΕ Παναθηναϊκός ΟΠΑΠ ανακοινώνει την απόκτηση του Παναγιώτη Καλαϊτζάκη για τα τρία επόμενα χρόνια (2+1). ☘✍ Διάβασε περισσότερα εδώ: https://t.co/caj302KMGA#paobc #panathinaikosbcopap pic.twitter.com/NJW90VZSLM — Panathinaikos BC (@paobcgr) July 2, 2022
The past November he made his debut with the Greek NT in the 2023 FIBA Basketball World Cup qualifiers. He had five points and four rebounds in his debut, which happened in a crucial game against Turkey.
“I feel blessed for the opportunity that has been given to me, and I’m happy to play for one of the top-tier clubs in Europe. Now, I’m ready to work alongside my teammates and coaches to succeed,” the 23-year-old guard said in his first statement.
Panathinaikos hired Dejan Radonjic as the team’s head coach, while they announced their first signing Friday, adding Paris Lee from AS Monaco Basket. After a disapponting end to the 2021-22 campaign, Panathinaikos hopes to rebuild for the 2022-23 season.
Comentarios