In an unforgettable Game 5 showdown, Panathinaikos edged out rivals Olympiacos 87-82 to claim the Stoiximan Basket League Championship title.
Panathinaikos has been crowned champion of Greek basketball after a thrilling 3-2 series victory over arch-rivals Olympiakos. This victory adds the Basket League title to their Euroleague crown, completing a remarkable double for the "Greens."
After trailing 2-0 in the best-of-five series, Panathinaikos mounted a historic comeback, culminating in an 87-82 victory in the decisive Game 5 at home. The game was a tense affair throughout, mirroring the intensity of Game 4.
Olympiakos started strong, building double-digit leads in the early stages. However, Panathinaikos, led by captain Kostas Sloukas's 29 points, fought back to take a narrow lead and ultimately secure the victory.
Sloukas, who joined Panathinaikos from Olympiakos last summer, proved instrumental in his team's triumph. Jerian Grant added 15 points and Kendrick Nunn contributed 13, despite losing two teeth during the game.
This championship marks Panathinaikos's first domestic title since 2021 and is a testament to their resilience and belief. Coach Ergin Ataman praised his team's "magic," highlighting their ability to overcome adversity, as demonstrated by their comebacks in both the Euroleague and the Basket League finals.
The series was widely regarded as one of the most captivating spectacles in global basketball this season, captivating fans with its intensity, drama, and high-level play.
