Panathinaikos has been dominating recently across European competition.
Adelaide 36ers head coach Mike Wells gave credit to the Panathinaikos after his team fell short 106-89 in Sydney during the 7th Pavlos Giannakopoulos tournament.
Wells said that Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens is the best team in the world due to its chemistry and complete roster by position that can shoot and defend.
“Panathinaikos is probably the best team in the world outside the NBA. Wells said during the post-game interview via BasketNews. “Their roster is loaded. They are long, they’re big, they shoot well, and they do so many different things. I think it was a really unique opportunity for everyone in Adelaide and the NBL. Our players deserved the chance to play in a game of that level.”
The 36ers have appreciated the opportunity as they find it as a good matchup where there is room to improve after the game.
“It was a fun challenge to see how we matched up, take a few swings, and figure out what we need to improve,” Wells said.
“Honestly, it was a great experience. After being in the NBA for so long, seeing Panathinaikos play and having the chance to compete and coach against them is one of the highlights of my career. I really enjoyed it, and I hope the players, the NBL, and everyone else enjoyed it too,” he added..
Wells had many years of NBA experience as an assistant and player development coach. He began his journey with the Houston Rockets in 1994, then became an assistant coach in 1999.
After his Rockets stint, he transferred to the Los Angeles Lakers in the same role, where he contributed to their 2007 championship. The Adelaide head coach also became part of the San Antonio Spurs, Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz, and Charlotte Hornets.
