Panathinaikos has finalized the signing of Nigel Hayes-Davis, confirming one of the most significant mid-season moves in EuroLeague history. Club owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos announced the deal on Instagram, locking the American forward through 2028.
Hayes-Davis reportedly signed a $10 million, 2.5-year deal, placing him among the top three highest-paid players in Europe alongside Hapoel’s Vasilije Micic and new Panathinaikos teammate Kendrick Nunn. Some reports suggest the total package could reach $15 million, though sources close to the club maintain the $10 million figure.
The forward became a coveted free agent after being waived by the Milwaukee Bucks, following a brief stint with the Phoenix Suns. During his NBA return this season, Hayes-Davis appeared in 27 games, averaging 1.3 points and 1.2 rebounds per contest.
Giannakopoulos’ financial offer reportedly outpaced competitors like Fenerbahce Beko and Hapoel IBI Tel Aviv, convincing Hayes-Davis to commit to Athens. The forward joins a Panathinaikos roster already featuring Kendrick Nunn, Cedi Osman, and Kostas Sloukas as the team pursues a deep playoff run in the 2025-26 EuroLeague season.
Hayes-Davis won the 2025 EuroLeague Final Four MVP with Fenerbahce, enhancing his value as a proven winner on Europe’s biggest stage.
The addition of Hayes-Davis strengthens Panathinaikos’ frontcourt and adds scoring and leadership to a team currently 16-11 and sitting eighth in the EuroLeague standings.
Panathinaikos now combines veteran experience and star power, with Hayes-Davis joining Kendrick Nunn, who leads the team with 19.4 points per game, and Osman contributing 12.5 points per contest. Sloukas continues to orchestrate the offense, averaging 5.3 assists per game, while the addition of Hayes-Davis adds depth and championship experience.
The forward’s signing comes at a critical juncture, with Panathinaikos seeking to challenge Fenerbahce, Olympiacos, and Valencia for a top-four finish in the standings. Athens hosting the EuroLeague Final Four this season further emphasizes the urgency to bolster the roster for a title run.
