Veteran big man Kenneth Faried has arrived in Athens to officially join Panathinaikos, bringing his high-energy style back to the EuroLeague. The Greek club confirmed that the former NBA star has signed a two-month contract, providing a timely boost to their lineup.
This move comes as Panathinaikos faces challenges with their roster. The team needed an experienced player to step in, and Faried’s arrival offers a solution as they navigate a busy schedule.
🚑 A Much-Needed Reinforcement
Panathinaikos signed Faried primarily to address a series of injuries to their key big men. With Omer Yurtseven, Richaun Holmes, and Mathias Lessort all expected to be out for a few more weeks, the team was left without a healthy center. Faried, 35, provides immediate depth and a strong presence in the paint, which is crucial for the team’s upcoming games.
✈️ A Journey Back to Europe
Faried’s return to the EuroLeague follows a brief but notable stint with CSKA in 2021, where he played seven games. More recently, he played in Italy with Reggiana and had a very short one-game spell in Taiwan’s P. LEAGUE+ with the TSG GhostHawks before Panathinaikos secured his contract. His experience playing in different leagues around the world makes him a versatile addition to the team.
🌟 Remembering “The Manimal”
Many basketball fans in Southeast Asia will remember Faried from his exciting career in the NBA, especially during his time with the Nuggets from 2011 to 2018. Known for his energy and rebounding, he earned the nickname “The Manimal” and became a fan favorite. A former first-round draft pick, Faried has played in nearly 500 NBA games with the Nuggets, Nets, and Rockets, and also won a gold medal with Team USA at the 2014 FIBA World Cup.
