On the fourth episode of The Crossover this season, Joe Arlauckas is joined by Mike Batiste and coach Dimitris Itoudis to revisit Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens's legendary run in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague from 2007 to 2011, which saw the Greens become European champion in 2007, 2009 and 2011.

Dimitris Itoudis, Mike Batiste remember their Panathinaikos successes on The Crossover

On the fourth episode of The Crossover this season, Joe Arlauckas is joined by [Mike Batiste](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/mike-batiste/ajv/) and coach [Dimitris Itoudis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/hapoel-shlomo-tel-aviv/hta/itoudis-dimitris/) to revisit [Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/panathinaikos-aktor-athens/pan/)'s legendary run in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague from 2007 to 2011, which saw the Greens become European champion in 2007, 2009 and 2011.

While Batiste was a star player at Panathinaikos alongside Dimitris Diamantidis, who also lifted these three EuroLeague titles, Coach Itoudis was an assistant to Zeljko Obradovic for the triumphs in Athens (2007), Berlin (2009), and Barcelona (2011).

With the 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi just one week away, Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul star Tarik Biberovic appeared on the EuroLeague & Friends podcast at the club's pre-Final Four Media Day. He was also joined at points by teammate Wade Baldwin and club mascot Yellow!

Tarik Biberovic joined by two surprise guests on pre-Final Four EuroLeague & Friends podcast

With the 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi just one week away, [Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/) star [Tarik Biberovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tarik-biberovic/006961/) appeared on the EuroLeague & Friends podcast at the club's pre-Final Four Media Day. He was also joined at points by teammate Wade Baldwin and club mascot Yellow!

During the podcast, they discussed Vasiliki not picking Biberovic in the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge, his great playoff series against Paris Basketball, how he has improved under Saras Jasikevicius, and much more.

In Abu Dhabi, Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens playmaker Kostas Sloukas will have a chance to truly rewrite the history books.

Kostas Sloukas sets his sights on Final Four records

When a player is playing in his 11th Final Four – more than all but one player in the history of the competition, and as one of the main protagonists in each one of those – it is not much of a surprise that he is flirting with all kinds of Final Four records.

In Abu Dhabi, Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens playmaker [Kostas Sloukas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/kostas-sloukas/001926/) will have a chance to truly rewrite the history books.

First and foremost, last year’s Final Four MVP will aim to become the first player this century to win five EuroLeague championships. He climbed the throne with Olympiacos in 2012 and 2013, he lifted the crown with Fenerbahce in 2017, and then did so with Panathinaikos last season.

If Panathinaikos ends up going back-to-back, the only players who would have more titles than Sloukas in the history of the competition would be Dino Meneghin with seven (titles won between 1970 and 1988) and Clifford Luyk (all from 1964 to 1978).

### Eyeing top spot

But Sloukas also has a realistic chance to reach the mountaintop in as many as four different Final Four statistical categories.

Sloukas enters this Final Four in second place [in accumulated PIR](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=Valuation&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF) with 203. [Victor Khryapa](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/victor-khryapa/bcq/) is the leader with 208. Sloukas is also [ranked second with 57 free throws made](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=FreeThrowsMade&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF), while [Nando De Colo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nando-de-colo/002100/) is the leader with 59. With three free throws made at the Final Four, Sloukas would be first overall all-time.

The Panathinaikos playmaker [ranks third with 67 assists](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=Assistances&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF), behind only [Sergio Llull](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sergio-llull/tgb/) (71) and [Sergio Rodriguez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sergio-rodriguez/cvm/) (76). Sloukas also arrives in Abu Dhabi ranked fourth in scoring at Final Fours this century with 191 points. Above him are [JR Holden](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jr-holden/aqo/) (194 points), Rodriguez (209) and Llull (213).

So, [with 23 points in two games](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=Score&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF), Sloukas would claim the top spot, which Llull has occupied since 2023. It’s worth remembering that Nikos Galis is the scoring leader in Final Four era with 231 points, achieved at the Final Fours played between 1988 and 1994. Sloukas would need to score 40 points in Abu Dhabi to catch Galis.

Moreover, with his next appearance in a Final Four game, Sloukas will move into second place all-time with [21 Final Four games played](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=GamesPlayed&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF), behind only Khryapa (23 Final Four appearances).

There is another player in Abu Dhabi who is set to move into the Top 10 in terms of appearances – Sloukas's former teammate, Olympiacos Piraeus team captain [Kostas Papanikolaou](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/kostas-papanikolaou/001255/). He is currently 11th, with one fewer Final Four game played than [Milos Teodosic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/milos-teodosic/jdr/) and [Andrey Vorontsevich](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/andrey-vorontsevich/lhi/), who are tied in ninth place with 15 appearances. In Abu Dhabi, Papanikolaou – playing at his eighth Final Four – can also move past them and catch Holden, who sits in eighth place with 16 Final Four games played.

Interestingly, Sloukas and Papanikolaou are tied just outside the Top 10 in Final Fours this century in two categories.

They sit in 11th place with [20 three-point shots](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=FieldGoalsMade3&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF) made apiece, with [Jaycee Carroll](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jaycee-carroll/001960/) and [David Blu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/david-blu/bes/) tied for ninth with 21 triples apiece, while [Saras Jasikevicius](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/saras-jasikevicius/adg/) and [Vassilis Spanoulis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/vassilis-spanoulis/juo/) are tied for seventh having made 22 threes each. Sloukas and Papanikolaou are also tied in 12th place with 37 defensive rebounds. Teodosic and [Mike Batiste](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/mike-batiste/ajv/) are tied in 10th place with 38 defensive rebounds apiece.

Sloukas is set to move up the two-pointers made list, where he ranks eighth with 37 shots made, behind Holden in seventh with 39 and Llull in sixth with 40 two-pointers made.

### McKissic leading the steals race

Sloukas is also tied for 18th place in Final Fours this century with 9 steals, needing four more to get into the Top 10. However, there are three other players in Abu Dhabi who have more steals in Final Four games than Sloukas.

[Shaquielle McKissic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shaquielle-mckissic/007853/) ranks in 12th place in Final Fours this century [with 12 steals](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=Steals&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF), which is more than any other player at this Final Four. This figure is even more impressive when you consider that McKissic has only played six Final Four games in his career. With his next steal, he will equal [Mike Batiste](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/mike-batiste/ajv/), [Kyle Hines](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/kyle-hines/002812/) and [Nikola Mirotic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nikola-mirotic/000796/), who are all tied in ninth place with 13 steals apiece.

Behind McKissic sits AS Monaco's [Nick Calathes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nick-calathes/001932/), who is the EuroLeague’s all-time leader in steals with 459, but only 11 of those came in the Final Fours, which ranks him in 13th place. Papanikolaou is also ahead of Sloukas, having stolen 10 balls, for 14th place. 

### Papanikolaou and Calathes moving up

Papanikolaou and Calathes are the only other players in Abu Dhabi who are already in the Top 10 in several categories, with an opportunity to move up some more.

Calathes, the EuroLeague’s all-time leader in assists, ranks fifth in Final Fours in that category with 48 assists. He needs 11 more to catch fourth-placed [Theo Papaloukas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/theodoros-papaloukas/atw/).

Papanikolaou has 12 starts in Final Four games this century, [tied for the third-most](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=GamesStarted&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF). Khryapa is second with 13 starts, and Holden is the leader with 15 starts in Final Four games. Calathes has nine starts in Final Four games this century, currently tied for 13th, but if he starts one game in Abu Dhabi he would enter the Top 10. If he starts both, Calathes would be alone in sixth place in this category.

Papanikolaou [ranks in ninth place](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=TotalRebounds&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF) with 55 rebounds, behind Batiste (58) and seventh-placed Mirotic (59). [Jan Vesely](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jan-vesely/000925/) is sixth with 64 rebounds in Final Fours this century. In this same category, Calathes is in 19th with 43 rebounds and needs 10 in Abu Dhabi to catch 10th-placed [Ioannis Bourousis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/ioannis-bourousis/aqu/) (53).

Papanikolaou needs a [single offensive rebound](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=OffensiveRebounds&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF) to move into the Top 10, while Calathes requires [one defensive rebound](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/stats/key-stats-players/?size=25&misc=&category=DefensiveRebounds&seasonMode=All&sortDirection=descending&aggregate=accumulated&phase=FF) to enter the Top 15 in that category in Final Fours this century.

The Panathinaikos point guard is in position to rewrite the Final Four history books in Abu Dhabi

It's almost game time as Europe's top four basketball teams arrive in Abu Dhabi. Scores of passionate fans will gather for two days of elite action at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. The excitement is just getting started! While you're in the city for the games, there's plenty of action off the court as well, offering unmissable entertainment and fan experiences for everyone to enjoy.

Off the court: 10 unmissable experiences for EuroLeague fans in Abu Dhabi

It's almost game time as Europe's top four basketball teams arrive in Abu Dhabi. Scores of passionate fans will gather for two days of elite action at Etihad Arena on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. The excitement is just getting started! While you're in the city for the games, there's plenty of action off the court as well, offering unmissable entertainment and fan experiences for everyone to enjoy.

Here’s your guide to exciting Abu Dhabi experiences during your stay:

**1.       Immerse yourself in art at Louvre Abu Dhabi** 

Take a break from the court and step into Louvre Abu Dhabi, a universal museum nestled in the heart of the Saadiyat Cultural District. Immerse yourself in the museum's permanent collection, featuring iconic works by artists from around the world. Visit seasonal exhibitions, including the current offering of “*Kings and Queens of Africa: Forms and Figures of Power”*, which offers a glimpse into the lives of Africa’s most revered and powerful figures.

**2.       Step into a world of wonder at teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi**

Be among the first to explore [teamLab Phenomena Abu Dhabi](https://www.teamlababudhabi.com/) — a multisensory space where art, science, and technology converge. With ever-evolving exhibits that respond to movement and light, each visit is a unique, immersive journey where the art truly comes alive.

**3.       Visit the magnificent Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque**

A visit to Abu Dhabi wouldn’t be complete without a visit to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the country’s largest mosque. The vision of the Founding Father of the UAE, the mosque welcomes millions of visitors from all religions and around the world each year, providing a glimpse into the country’s traditions and rich history. Offering guided tours, guests are invited to immerse themselves in this architectural marvel and gain a deeper understanding of the emirate’s culture.

**4.       Savor the flavors of Abu Dhabi’s diverse dining experiences**

From locally inspired dishes at Erth, the first-ever Emirati restaurant to receive a Michelin star, to international flavors at Hakkasan, Abu Dhabi’s dining scene has something for every palate. Whether indulging in Zuma’s modern Japanese fare or the vibrant fusion at Sushi Samba, you'll find global flavors in every corner. And if you're after a laid-back bite or fine dining, Abu Dhabi is ready to serve a winning meal.

**5.       Feel the excitement of adventure on Yas Island**

For thrill-seekers and families alike, Yas Island is the ultimate destination. Ride one of the world’s fastest rollercoasters, Formula Rossa, at Ferrari World Abu Dhabi or dive into animated worlds at Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. From adrenaline to animation, Yas Island is where the fun never stops.

**6.       Paddle through nature at the Mangrove National Park on Jubail Island**

Trade the basketball court for a different kind of arena – the serene waterways of the [Mangrove National Park](https://jubailisland.ae/jubail-mangrove-park/). Rent a kayak and paddle through the lush mangrove forests, discovering the unique ecosystem and spotting local wildlife, offering a chance to escape from the city and connect with nature.

**7.       Catch a wave at Surf Abu Dhabi on Hudayriyat Island**

Whether you're a seasoned surfer or a first-timer, [Surf Abu Dhabi](https://www.surfabudhabi.com/booking?ref=em-conversions-ba-session-uae&utm_term=surf%20in%20abu%20dhabi&utm_campaign=SurfAD-EM-Conversion-UAE-2May25&utm_source=adwords&utm_medium=ppc&hsa_acc=8959274435&hsa_cam=22499760705&hsa_grp=176211976502&hsa_ad=749959074363&hsa_src=g&hsa_tgt=aud-2380739198795:kwd-324082988836&hsa_kw=surf%20in%20abu%20dhabi&hsa_mt=b&hsa_net=adwords&hsa_ver=3&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22499760705&gbraid=0AAAAA-KQXXLCvFCnIpTCASCmokSlVOCLE&gclid=CjwKCAjw24vBBhABEiwANFG7y92MmgRCl2-AMxy9GSTsnnXIUZnGXJhbyY7bq0dlNjcxMSlDw9G2mhoCP7AQAvD_BwE) offers year-round thrills. Home to the world’s longest ride, largest barrel, and tallest man-made wave, it’s a must-visit for water lovers. Add in a beach club, restaurants, and oceanfront vibes, and you’ve got the ultimate surf spot.

**8.       Experience the thrill of a desert safari**

Enjoy a thrilling dune-bashing experience across the sand dunes and cross off a bucket list experience with Abu Dhabi’s famous desert safaris. Take a camel ride to see things from a different perspective and relax in a traditional Bedouin-style camp, where you can enjoy Emirati cuisine and cultural performances under the stars. It's a unique opportunity to experience the desert environment and local culture, all while creating special, fun-filled memories with loved ones.

**9.       Pamper yourself at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara on Sir Bani Yas Island**

Inspired by the surrounding desert, the [Anantara Spa](https://www.anantara.com/en/desert-islands-sir-bani-yas?utm_source=GoogleMyBusiness&utm_medium=GMB&utm_term=DesertIslands&utm_content=Home&utm_campaign=Google_GMB) blends age-old healing traditions with modern wellness, natural ingredients, and ocean views from the outdoor jacuzzi, creating a serene escape that’s perfect for a peaceful recharge.

**10.   Unwind and shop in style at Yas Mall**

Just a short drive from Etihad Arena, Yas Mall is Abu Dhabi’s largest shopping destination. Stroll through its spacious avenues lined with international and regional brands, stop for a bite at one of the many cafes and restaurants, or catch a film at the cinema. With entertainment for all ages and a direct link to Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, it’s the perfect stop between the Final Four games.

From the thrill of the EuroLeague Final Four to a city packed with unforgettable experiences, build your perfect itinerary, make memories that last, and discover why Abu Dhabi is the real MVP of your EuroLeague adventure. Head to [visitabudhabi.ae](http://visitabudhabi.ae) to find out more!

The Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four games take place 23 & 25 May

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul v Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (2025-05-23T15:00:00.000Z)

Olympiacos Piraeus v AS Monaco (2025-05-23T18:00:00.000Z)

There won’t be any pretenders on the sidelines of the 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four with head coaches Georgios Bartzokas of Olympiacos Piraeus, Sarunas Jasikevicius of Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul, Ergin Ataman of Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens, and Vassilis Spanoulis of AS Monaco at work

2025 Final Four: The coaches

There won’t be any pretenders on the sidelines of the 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four. All four coaches in Abu Dhabi have lifted the trophy before, whether as a coach or player, and bring with them the necessary credentials to make history. Let’s have a look at what makes these four so special.

#### Georgios Bartzokas, Olympiacos Piraeus

**Years with club:** 7

**Final Fours:** 6

The 59-year-old Georgios Bartzokas has had a full and exciting coaching career, which included four seasons abroad in Russia and Spain, but his biggest accomplishments have come with Olympiacos. He guided the club to the EuroLeague crown in 2013 in his first season on the bench. Now in his second stint, Bartzokas has taken the Reds to four straight Final Fours.

Bartzokas has coached five clubs in the EuroLeague (Maroussi, Olympiacos, Lokomotiv Kuban Krasnodar, FC Barcelona and Khimki Moscow Region) and taken three of them to the playoffs. However, his career record at the Final Four is 5-5 and his record in the semifinals is 2-3. That includes losing the 2022 semifinal to eventual champion Anadolu Efes Istanbul on a Vasilije Micic three at the buzzer.

This season Bartzokas has kept Olympiacos on a steady path, despite dealing with frontcourt injuries and losing point guard Thomas Walker for the stretch run. Already a three-time EuroLeague Coach of the Year and ranked sixth all-time in coaching wins, Bartzokas is now two wins from history.

**If Olympiacos wins…** Bartzokas would win his second championship 12 years after his first. That would be the second-longest gap between EuroLeague crowns. The longest is 15 years by the late Dusan Ivkovic, who Bartzokas replaced at Olympiacos in 2012.

#### Sarunas Jasikevicius, Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul

**Years with club:** 2 as a coach, 1 as a player

**Final Fours:** 6 as a coach, 5 as a player

A star point guard in his playing days, Sarunas Jasikevicius navigated a season of ups and downs to become the first team to qualify for the Final Four. All Saras has done is win whether as a player or coach. After capturing four EuroLeague championships with three teams as a player, he has now become the first coach to reach five consecutive Final Fours while switching teams in the middle.

After retiring as a player, Jasikevicius returned home to Lithuania and started his career as an assistant coach with Zalgiris Kaunas. He was handed the head coaching reins in January 2016 and has not disappointed thanks to his eye for talent, tactical acumen and level of intensity that ensures he gets the most out of his charges. Saras led Zalgiris to the 2018 Final Four and then joined FC Barcelona in 2021, leading the club to the next three Final Fours. Last season, having been appointed by Fenerbahce midseason, he took the team to the 2024 Final Four.

To date, Jasikevicius is 1-4 at semifinals and eager to change that. He was voted as this season's Aleksander Gomelskiy Coach of the Year after twice leading Fener on six-game winning streaks and later sweeping Paris Basketball in the playoffs. Saras is now two wins from history.

**If Fenerbahce wins…** Jasikevicius would become the fourth person in EuroLeague history to have won the championship as a player and coach. The first three were Armenak Alachachan, Lolo Sainz and Svetislav Pesic.

#### Ergin Ataman, Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens

Years with club: 2

Final Fours: 7

Not only is he the reigning champ, but Ergin Ataman has won the EuroLeague in three of the last four seasons! None of that is a coincidence. Ataman is a coach who has a system, gives talented players the freedom to be creative in that system and all season long challenges them, holds them accountable and instills confidence in them.

The EuroLeague is one of four pan-European competitions that Ataman has won, so the Turkish tactician is as experienced as they come in pressure-filled situations. And when needed, he knows how to take on the pressure and thus relieve his players of it.

With Panathinaikos, Ataman put together a star-studded roster in his first season and got them to gel in time to take the crown. This season he added more top-tier talent and made sure the ship kept sailing after All-EuroLeague center Mathias Lessort went down with a broken leg. Ataman has won his last four EuroLeague semifinals and is seeking his fifth championship game appearance from the last six Final Fours. Ataman is now two wins from history.

**If Panathinaikos wins…** Ataman will move into a tie (with Ettore Messina, Bozidar Maljkovic, Pedro Ferrandiz and Aleksander Gomelskiy) for the second-most championships won with four. The winningest coach is Zeljko Obradovic with nine titles.

#### Vassilis Spanoulis, AS Monaco

Years with club: 1

Final Fours: 1 as a coach, 5 as a player

As a player Vassilis Spanoulis was known as someone who brought magic to the court and never shied away from the biggest moments. And so far, that appears to be who he is as a head coach. Spanoulis made his EuroLeague head coaching debut in November and is now back at the Final Four, an event he dominated many times in his playing days.

The same basketball IQ and drive for excellence that defined Spanoulis as a guard have made him a special head coach. After retiring from playing in 2021, he began his head coaching career a year later with Peristeri Athens. And he needed only two seasons to show that he was ready for prime time.

Only 42 years old, Spanoulis is young enough to connect with his players and has built a special bond with All-EuroLeague guard Mike James, among other players. Will those bonds be enough to take this Monaco bunch over the hump and to the crown? Based on how Spanoulis ruled as a player at the Final Four, it would be dangerous to bet against him. As a player, he was 5-0 in EuroLeague Semifinals. Spanoulis is now two wins from history.

**If Monaco wins…** Spanoulis would become the first coach to win the EuroLeague in his first season coaching in the competition since Zeljko Obradovic did so with Partizan Belgrade in 1992.

Frankie Sachs analyses the four play-callers at the Final Four

As we continue to build up to the 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi, Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens star Cedi Osman hopped aboard the EuroLeague & Friends podcast at the Greens' pre-Final Four Media Day. 

Cedi Osman takes center stage on the pre-Final Four EuroLeague & Friends podcast

As we continue to build up to the 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi, [Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/panathinaikos-aktor-athens/pan/) star [Cedi Osman](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/cedi-osman/004088/) hopped aboard the EuroLeague & Friends podcast at the Greens' pre-Final Four Media Day. 

They discussed why his nickname is "the first Jedi", his adjustment to Greece, the love he gets from Panathinaikos fans, the fact he will play another Turkish team after eliminating Efes in playoffs, plus much more. Mathias Lessort even came with some other Panathinaikos teammates to do a selfie with Osman mid-podcast!

There is a lot of familiarity among the four teams that will challenge for the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague crown at the Final Four in Abu Dhabi. 

The many crossed paths of the 2025 Final Four participants 

There is a lot of familiarity among the four teams that will challenge for the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague crown at the Final Four in Abu Dhabi. The rosters and coaching staffs of [Olympiacos Piraeus](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/olympiacos-piraeus/oly/), [Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/panathinaikos-aktor-athens/pan/), [Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/) and [AS Monaco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/as-monaco/mco/) feature many players who have suited up for more than one of those teams and many former teammates who will square off against one another.

### The coaches know each other well

Let's start with the four head coaches. AS Monaco head coach Vassilis Spanoulis won his last EuroLeague title in 2013 when he led Olympiacos to a 100-88 win over Real Madrid in the championship game. Spanoulis was then coached by current Olympiacos boss Georgios Bartzokas.

Olympiacos's Georgios Bartzokas and Monaco's Vassilis Spanoulis embrace before the Round 32 meeting between the two teams.

Spanoulis and current Fenerbahce head coach Saras Jasikevicius were teammates when Panathinaikos won the EuroLeague in 2009. That marked Saras's fourth championship and was Spanoulis's first of three. Both Spanoulis and Jasikevicius now have the chance to become the fourth person to win the EuroLeague as both a player and coach.

How does Panathinaikos head coach Ergin Ataman fit in? Ataman won the 2021 championship game against Barca, which was coached by Jasikevicius. In 2022, Anadolu Efes Istanbul downed Olympiacos 74-77 in the semifinals on a three-point shot by Vasilije Micic, which allowed Ataman's team to knock off Bartzokas's squad. Ataman has eliminated Fenerbahce twice in the semifinals, with Efes in 2019 and with Panathinaikos in 2024, stopping Saras from reaching another championship game.

Ataman has also coached one of Fenerbahce's top scorers. [Errick McCollum](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/errick-mccollum/005216/) and Ataman teamed up at Efes in the second part of the 2017-18 season. Before that, they led Galatasaray to the 2016 EuroCup championship, with the latter McCollum earning EuroCup MVP honors.

### Sloukas reigns supreme

Panathinaikos star guard [Kostas Sloukas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/kostas-sloukas/001926/) is entering his 11th Final Four; he was also present in 2009, but did not appear in any game. Sloukas has led three of this year's Final Four teams to EuroLeague glory. He won back-to-back titles with Olympiacos in 2012 and 2013 and added crowns with Fenerbahce in 2017 and Panathinaikos last year. He is one of two players to win the EuroLeague with three different teams; Jasikevicius is the other. Sloukas is 8-2 in the EuroLeague semifinals, and his two losses came against Coach Ataman: against Efes with Fenerbahce in 2019 and against Olympiacos in 2022.

Kostas Sloukas celebrates with the 2024 EuroLeague trophy and his Final Four MVP award.

Two more players have won the EuroLeague with a potential Final Four opponent. [Nick Calathes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nick-calathes/001932/) of Monaco won his only championship with Panathinaikos in 2011. Should Calathes win in Abu Dhabi, he would take the record for the longest gap between crowns, which is currently held by Dino Meneghin (1976 Varese, 1987 Milan). [Luca Vildoza](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/luca-vildoza/007947/) of Olympiacos lifted the trophy with Panathinaikos last season. If he wins this season, Vildoza would become the first player to win the EuroLeague with both Greek giants in consecutive seasons.

Sloukas is not the only player to have played for three of this year's Final Four teams. Calathes had two stints with Panathinaikos and was with Fenerbahce last season. Monaco center Georgios Papagiannis made it to the 2021-22 All-EuroLeague Second Team with the Greens and also played for Fenerbahce in the 2023-24 campaign. Amazingly, the 2017 EuroLeague Championship Game between Olympiacos and Fenerbahce featured players or coaches from all four teams present at the 2025 Final Four: Olympiacos ([Kostas Papanikolaou](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/kostas-papanikolaou/001255/), [Nikola Milutinov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nikola-milutinov/003941/)), Panathinaikos (Sloukas, [Ioannis Papapetrou](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/ioannis-papapetrou/005161/)), Fenerbahce ([Khem Birch](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/khem-birch/007182/), [Melih Mahmutoglu](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/melih-mahmutoglu/002969/)) and Monaco (Coach Spanoulis).

### But wait, there's more

[Daniel Theis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/daniel-theis/004132/) of Monaco and [Nicolo Melli](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nicolo-melli/002849/) of Fenerbahce were Brose Baskets Bamberg teammates for two seasons. [Petr Cornelie](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/petr-cornelie/004790/) of Monaco and [Nigel Williams-Goss](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nigel-williams-goss/007982/) of Olympiacos helped Real Madrid win the EuroLeague in 2023. Panathinaikos center [Omer Yurtseven](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/omer-yurtseven/005353/) made his professional debut with Fenerbahce as a teenager in 2014 and spent parts of two seasons with the club.

Daniel Theis and Nicolo Melli in action for Brose Bamberg.

[Moustapha Fall](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/moustapha-fall/008811/) of Olympiacos played for Monaco during the 2014-15 season, when the club was in the French second division. Fall has teamed with Evan Fournier and Monaco's Cornelie, [Terry Tarpey](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/terry-tarpey/012515/) and [Elie Okobo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/elie-okobo/011212/) on the French national team. At EuroBasket 2022, Fall, Fournier, Tarpey and Okobo won silver medals. Before that, Fall, Fournier and Cornelie took silver medals at the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo. Fall also teamed with [Matthew Strazel](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/matthew-strazel/008099/) of Monaco at LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne during the 2020-21 season.

Papanikolaou and [Donatas Motiejunas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/donatas-motiejunas/lcz/) played together in the NBA with the Houston Rockets. Likewise, [Evan Fournier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/evan-fournier/013380/) of Olympiacos, Birch and Panathinaikos guard [Jerian Grant](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jerian-grant/011204/) were teammates at the NBA's Orlando Magic.

[Thomas Walkup](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/thomas-walkup/008855/) of Olympiacos, [Nigel Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/) of Fenerbahce and [Marius Grigonis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/marius-grigonis/002328/) of Panathinaikos spent two seasons together with Zalgiris Kaunas, and were all coached by Jasikevicius in the 2019-20 campaign. [Sertac Sanli](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sertac-sanli/002968/) of Fenerbahce and [Alec Peters](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/alec-peters/008829/) of Olympiacos were Efes teammates that same season. Peters went on to play for Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz in the 2021-22 season and teamed up with Vildoza. A year later, Peters shared the floor with Fenerbahce's [Wade Baldwin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/wade-baldwin-iv/009863/) in Vitoria-Gasteiz.

Nigel Hayes-Davis and Marius Grigonis on the floor together during their time at Zalgiris Kaunas.

Many Panathinaikos players are connected to other teams and players, too. Like Sloukas, Papapetrou made his EuroLeague debut with Olympiacos and played there for five years. [Mathias Lessort](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mathias-lessort/003842/) won the 2020-21 EuroCup with Monaco. [Lorenzo Brown](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/lorenzo-brown/009622/) played one season with Fenerbahce and had Baldwin and [Bonzie Colson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/bonzie-colson/009783/) as Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv teammates in each of the last two seasons. And in his only season with EA7 Emporio Armani Milan, [Konstantinos Mitoglou](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/konstantinos-mitoglou/007866/) shared the floor with Melli and [Devon Hall](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/devon-hall/011205/).

So there will be many old friends at the games in Abu Dhabi, but when the Final Four tips off they will more importantly be basketball rivals.

Familiar faces and former teammates are set to fight for Turkish Airlines EuroLeague glory in Abu Dhabi

Turkish Airlines EuroLeague fans are going to be in for a treat in Abu Dhabi, with the FanZone acting as the perfect accompaniment to all the Final Four action. 

The Final Four is not a Final Four without its FanZone!

Turkish Airlines EuroLeague fans are going to be in for a treat in Abu Dhabi, with the FanZone acting as the perfect accompaniment to all the Final Four action. Taking place at The Galleria Al Maryah Island - South Bridge Link between May 23 and 25 from 10am to 10pm local time, the FanZone will be full of entertainment for fans of all ages to enjoy.

This year’s FanZone brings the excitement of the game beyond the court, with three dynamic zones packed with interactive fun. From testing your shot on electronic hoops to comparing your hand size to EuroLeague stars and reliving the most iconic plays from the past 25 years, there's something for everyone. Ever wondered how your height stacks up to your favorite player? Now’s your chance to find out!

Many of Euroleague Basketball’s family of sponsors will be involved in the FanZone festivities, too, as they help bring their own unique flavor to the celebration.

Turkish Airlines will be on hand to deliver immersive experiences and activations that transport them to new heights, while BKT invites attendees to pose with the official EuroLeague Trophy and test their skills on custom arcade games. Motorola amps up the energy with tech-infused excitement, offering interactive games and gadget showcases that blend innovation with entertainment.

For collectors, Panini is a must-visit. Here, fans can grab the latest stickers and cards while trading with fellow enthusiasts. CFI adds a competitive edge with its Trading Court, as it combines financial education with prize-winning excitement. Meanwhile, Trendyol brings creativity to the forefront by connecting fans to EuroLeague Final Four players in a fun and engaging way.

Of course, no fan experience would be complete without the chance to gear up. The Official Final Four Merchandise stand will be stocked with iconic T-shirts, team gear, and more.

The fun doesn’t stop there! The FanZone will be buzzing with activities throughout the weekend. A live DJ will keep the energy high with music all day long. Face painting stations will be available on game days for fans of all ages, while dance performances will light up the stage. Multiple basketball zones will feature spectator challenges, prizes, and non-stop action.

Don’t miss your chance to meet the stars, too. Throughout the weekend, fans can look forward to special appearances from current Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four players, as well as All-25 EuroLeague team members and legendary players from across the last 25 years.

Whether you’re a lifelong EuroLeague follower or new to the game, the FanZone is for you. See you there!

Challenges, music and prizes are awaiting you at the FanZone between May 23 and 25 at The Galleria Al Maryah Island

Javier Gancedo makes his picks for which why Saben Lee, Jordan Loyd, Nicolo Melli and Jerian Grant might be the biggest difference makers at the 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi

Who might be an X-factor at the Final Four?

When it comes to the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four, the unexpected has almost become expected. Over the years, many role players have taken on key roles and surprised opponents and casual fans alike to become difference-makers at Final Fours. Why should the 2025 Final Four in Abu Dhabi be an exception? Before I examine who those X-factors might be this year, let's take a look back at recent Final Fours.

### Sleepers: A look back

You only need to check the list of champions to find who, against all odds, helped lead their teams to the title. Maccabi Tel Aviv fans probably remember [Nestoras Kommatos](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nestoras-kommatos/jgk/)'s iconic performance in the 2005 championship game against Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz and how [Aleksey Savrasenko](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/aleksey-savrasenko/alr/) surprised their team a year later as CSKA Moscow claimed the 2006 crown. [Fabien Causeur](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/fabien-causeur/001392/) may be the king of all Final Four sleepers; he played a big role for Real Madrid at the 2018 and 2023 Final Fours. Causeur had 17 points and a PIR of 21 in the 2018 championship game against Fenerbahce Istanbul and - despite averaging 4.0 points in the 2022-23 campaign, he scored 11 points in the 2023 final against Olympiacos Piraeus.

Last season, [Panagiotis Kalaitzakis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/panagiotis-kalaitzakis/011209/) gave Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens the energy it needed in both the semifinals and the final to average a PIR of 6.5 in barely 7 minutes per night. In 2022, [Tibor Pleiss](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tibor-pleiss/lhk/) had an iconic performance to lead Anadolu Efes Istanbul to a 57-58 win over Real Madrid: 19 points and 7 rebounds for a PIR of 24. Even when [Vasilije Micic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/vasilije-micic/002580/) and [Shane Larkin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shane-larkin/007200/) got all the credit in the [2021 championship game](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/efes-wins-its-first-euroleague-crown/), [Adrian Moerman](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/adrien-moerman/001833/) took care of all the dirty work, amassing 6 points and 8 boards for a PIR of 12. Whenever a team wins the EuroLeague, there is always an unsung hero. Here are four players I will have my eye on in Abu Dhabi.

Adrian Moerman took care of the dirty work in the 2021 championship game

### Saben Lee, Olympiacos Piraeus

It has been a rollercoaster season for [Saben Lee](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/saben-lee/013389/); he started it with Turkish side Manisa Basket, made [a stunning EuroLeague debut with Maccabi](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/saben-lee-announced-himself-to-the-euroleague-with-stellar-maccabi-debut/) that included poster dunks and even a game-winner against Real Madrid, returned to Manisa only to join Olympiacos a little later. Energy guys are a must to succeed in the Final Four, plus Lee has been playing better lately. Lee averaged 5.2 points and a PIR of 7.9 in the playoffs series against Real despite playing less than 12 minutes per game. If Olympiacos goes all the way, Lee would put an incredible end to one of the most eventful seasons any player ever had in the competition.

Saben Lee of Olympiacos Piraeus has a chance to win the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague title in his first season in the competition.

2024-25 EuroLeague highlights: Saben Lee, Olympiacos

### Nicolo Melli, Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul

[Nicolo Melli](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nicolo-melli/002849/) knows what it takes to do well at the Final Four, even though he's never lifted the trophy. In 2018, he posted 28 points and 6 rebounds for a PIR of 27 in the championship game against Real Madrid. Seven years later, Melli is still a reliable scorer and a key player in Fenerbahce's frontcourt defense. He is one of many seasoned Fenerbahce veterans looking to win their first EuroLeague title after many years in the competition. A fierce competitor, Melli should be ready to bring out his best as a rock-solid defender who can score from anywhere and use his off-the-charts basketball IQ to take care of the important small details. 

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul big man Nicolo Melli is trying to win his first Turkish Airlines EuroLeague title at the 2025 Final Four.

2024-25 EuroLeague highlights: Nicolo Melli, Fenerbahce

### Jerian Grant, Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens

Though eyes will be on other players, [Jerian Grant](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jerian-grant/011204/) always seems to get the job done. He scored only 3 points in [Game 1 of the playoffs](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/panathinaikos-beats-efes-87-83-in-game-1/), but hit the game-clinching corner three-pointer in the final minute. [In the do-or-die Game 5](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/panathinaikos-downs-efes-in-game-5-75-67-to-reach-final-four/), he made the difference with 11 points, 8 rebounds and 2 steals. Grant always takes on a critical role on defense and he brings experience from last year's Final Four. [He was all over the place in the 2024 championship game](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/tae2324-euroleague-final-four-panathinaikos-jerian-grant-was-an-unsung-hero-of-the-championship-effort/) with 11 points, 6 rebounds, 5 assists and 2 steals against Real Madrid. In big games, Grant can fix almost any problem Coach Ataman may have.

In two years, Jerian Grant earned 2022-23 BKT EuroCup MVP honors and helped Panathinaikos to win 2023-24 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague, the club's first continental crown in 13 years. Grant wants more in Abu Dhabi.

2024-25 EuroLeague highlights: Jerian Grant, Panathinaikos

### Jordan Loyd, AS Monaco

[Jordan Loyd](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jordan-loyd/009754/) is an experienced player who should find his groove in Abu Dhabi. And when he is in good rhythm, he can be just as deadly a scorer as any of his backcourt teammates, whether looking for his own shots off the dribble or coming off screens to use his quick release. Loyd should be ready to bounce back after the playoffs (4.6 ppg., 22.2% 2FG, 30.8% 3FG). A veteran of six EuroLeague seasons, this is Loyd's best shot to win the EuroLeague and he will be sure to make the most of it.

AS Monaco guard Jordan Loyd earned another shot to lift the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague trophy at the end of the season.

2024-25 EuroLeague highlights: Jordan Loyd, Monaco

Javier Gancedo makes his picks for which unheralded players might be the biggest difference makers in Abu Dhabi