Derrick Williams arrived in Athens on Sunday in order to join the training camp of Panathinaikos, which will tip off this week.
The American big man spoke with media and shared his excitement about joining the six-time EuroLeague champions, while referring to his goal with the club.
“I feel great, I’m excited! Panathinaikos is a historic club, with a historic fan base. Its history speaks for itself. This team must win! That’s why I’m here. I want to help the team get into the playoffs and do some damage,” Williams told Panathinaikos’ official website.
Welcome to Athens @DWXXIII ☘️#WeTheGreens #paobc #panathinaikos pic.twitter.com/Cre6e6QCbz
— Panathinaikos BC (@paobcgr) August 21, 2022
Panathinaikos made several changes to its roster after a disappointing 2021/22 campaign, which saw the team miss the EuroLeague playoffs and lose the Greek championship.
After hiring Dejan Radonjic as new head coach, the “Greens” signed eight new players, including Derrick Williams, and will need time to work on their chemistry.
“I’ve played with some of the lads before, I’ve also worked with the coach in my first season at Bayern [Munich], so I’m happy, we both feel like we’ve left something behind,” Williams added.
Panathinaikos will tip off the 2022/23 EuroLeague season with a home game against fellow powerhouse Real Madrid on October 6.