Tarik Biberovic believes Nigel Hayes-Davis understands the expectations at Panathinaikos and is well-suited to thrive under Ergin Ataman's trust and system.
Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens have pulled off the biggest in-season move in Europe by signing forward Nigel Hayes-Davis following his NBA stint.
The reigning Final Four MVP returns to Europe with major expectations – something his former Fenerbahce teammate Tarik Biberovic understands well.
"Nigel coming into this team, he knows very well what that means. The fans will expect a lot from him. And I think he accepts that role consciously and willingly," Biberovic told Sport24. "I think he will help them. I think he will be good for them."
Hayes-Davis and Biberovic were teammates from 2022 to 2025 in Istanbul. Biberovic also knows Panathinaikos head coach Ergin Ataman from their time together with the Turkish national team.
Asked whether Hayes-Davis and Ataman will be a good fit, Biberovic didn't hesitate.
"Yes. The coach loves talented players," he said. "He trusts them, gives them responsibilities, and lets them do their best. It's not easy when you have one or two injuries to keep the same rhythm and the same energy. But with Nigel, I think they will do well."
Interestingly, No. 1 seed Fenerbahce are set to face Panathinaikos on Friday night, although Hayes-Davis is not expected to make his debut in this game.
Nigel Hayes-Davis To Panathinaikos Shocked Us!
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