Nigel Hayes-Davis spoke publicly about his decision to join Panathinaikos, describing the move as a new chapter in his career. The 31-year-old forward emphasized that discussions with family, friends, and his agent guided the choice, saying he is ready to contribute fully on both ends of the floor.
Hayes-Davis highlighted his time at Fenerbahce, where he won the 2025 EuroLeague Final Four MVP, noting that the chapter there had closed and it was time to embrace new opportunities in Athens. “The coach wanted me to come in and just be Nigel, and we’ll make it work around you,” he said.
Panathinaikos confirmed the signing last week, locking Hayes-Davis into a $10 million, 2.5-year deal, placing him among the top earners in Europe alongside teammate Kendrick Nunn and Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv’s Vasilije Micic. The financial package reportedly outpaced offers from Fenerbahce and Hapoel, convincing Hayes-Davis to commit to Greece.
The forward arrives as Panathinaikos sits 9-7 in home games and 7-7 on the road, 16-12 overall, currently eighth in the EuroLeague standings. The club aims to challenge Fenerbahce, Olympiacos, and Valencia for a top-four finish while hosting this season’s Final Four, adding urgency to strengthen its roster.
Hayes-Davis brings championship experience and versatility, joining a lineup that includes Nunn, Cedi Osman, and Kostas Sloukas.
After brief NBA stints with Milwaukee and Phoenix this season, where he averaged 1.3 points and 1.2 rebounds over 27 games, Hayes-Davis is refocusing on European competition.
Hayes-Davis stressed the importance of teamwork and fan support, saying, “Cheer for us when we’re doing well, cheer for us even more when we’re not doing well, and always remember we’re trying our best.”
