Greek powerhouse Panathinaikos has officially parted ways with veteran center Richaun Holmes, bringing an early end to his stint with the club.
Contract Terminated Mid-Season
The club confirmed that Holmes’ contract was terminated with immediate effect, just months after he joined the team ahead of the 2025–26 season.
Holmes had signed a deal structured as a one-year contract with a team option for a second season, but the partnership did not last long due to a combination of on-court and off-court issues.
Tensions Behind the Departure
Reports indicate that Holmes’ exit followed a period of tension within the team, including a public rift with head coach Ergin Ataman.
The situation escalated after the coach openly criticized the performance of his big men, with Holmes reportedly among those singled out. The fallout from these comments contributed to the decision to part ways.
Limited Impact on the Court
During his time with Panathinaikos, Holmes had a modest role. He appeared in multiple EuroLeague games, averaging around 8 points and 4 rebounds per game, but struggled to secure a consistent place in the rotation.
Injuries and fluctuating form also affected his ability to make a strong impact.
Club Moves Quickly to Adjust Roster
Following Holmes’ departure, Panathinaikos moved to reinforce their roster by bringing back Greek center Ioannis Kouzeloglou from loan to add depth in the frontcourt.
This move highlights the team’s urgency to stabilize its interior lineup amid a challenging season.
End of a Brief European Chapter
Holmes’ move to Panathinaikos marked his first experience playing in Europe after spending nearly a decade in the NBA.
However, the stint proved short-lived, and he now becomes a free agent, open to new opportunities either in Europe or elsewhere.
Conclusion
Panathinaikos’ decision to part ways with Richaun Holmes reflects both performance-related concerns and internal tensions. While the partnership did not work out as planned, Holmes’ experience and skill set could still attract interest from other teams looking for an experienced big man.
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