Panathinaikos is nearing a major frontcourt addition, with veteran NBA center Richaun Holmes reportedly close to signing with the Greek powerhouse.
According to SDNA.gr, the 31-year-old has reached an agreement in principle with the 2024 EuroLeague champions following nearly three weeks of negotiations.
Holmes is expected to finalize terms and travel to Athens soon, pending final details and contract approval.
The report indicates that Panathinaikos intensified its pursuit in recent weeks, ultimately edging out rival offers — including one from reigning EuroLeague champions Fenerbahce.
Holmes most recently played for the Washington Wizards, where he averaged 7.4 points, 5.7 rebounds, and shot 64.7% from the field over 31 games in the 2024–25 season.
Before joining Washington midseason, the 6-foot-10 center appeared in nine games for the Dallas Mavericks.
The American big man has been a steady presence in the NBA since being drafted No. 47 overall by Philadelphia in 2015.
Across 489 career games, Holmes has averaged 8.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and nearly one block in 19 minutes per contest, while shooting 60.3% from the field.
His best stretch came with the Sacramento Kings during the 2020–21 season, where he posted 14.2 points, 8.3 rebounds, and 1.6 blocks while shooting 63.7%.
Holmes had been pursuing a guaranteed NBA deal this offseason but has reportedly shifted his focus to Europe after limited interest stateside.
Panathinaikos head coach Ergin Ataman is said to view Holmes as a crucial piece in the club’s plans to defend its EuroLeague title in 2026.
