In a recent exhibition game held in Sydney, the Adelaide 36ers faced a formidable opponent in Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens, resulting in a 106-89 defeat. Despite the loss, 36ers head coach Mike Wells expressed profound respect and admiration for the Greek powerhouse, hailing them as potentially the premier team globally, outside the NBA. This encounter, part of the 7th Pavlos Giannakopoulos tournament, served as a significant learning curve for the Australian squad.
Adelaide 36ers Coach Lauds Panathinaikos' Dominance in Exhibition Match
During the 7th Pavlos Giannakopoulos tournament in Sydney, the Adelaide 36ers, under the guidance of head coach Mike Wells, encountered a challenging match against Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens on September 21, 2025. Panathinaikos secured a decisive 106-89 victory, showcasing their superior skill and cohesion. Following the game, Coach Wells commended the Greek team, describing them as \"the best team in the world outside the NBA.\" He specifically praised Panathinaikos's exceptional roster depth, characterized by tall and versatile players adept at both offense and defense, and their remarkable team chemistry. For the Adelaide 36ers and the NBL, this matchup presented a unique and invaluable opportunity to compete at an elite level, offering critical insights for team development and improvement. Wells, drawing on his extensive NBA background with teams like the Houston Rockets, Los Angeles Lakers (where he contributed to a championship in 2007), San Antonio Spurs, Washington Wizards, Utah Jazz, and Charlotte Hornets, considered coaching against Panathinaikos a significant milestone in his distinguished career.
This game serves as a powerful reminder of the global talent present in basketball beyond the NBA. Coach Wells's commendation of Panathinaikos underscores the importance of diverse playing styles and strategic depth in international basketball. For aspiring teams and coaches, it highlights that success is built on more than individual talent; it requires exceptional team chemistry, a well-rounded roster, and adaptability. The experience gained from facing such a dominant team, even in a loss, can be an invaluable catalyst for growth and development, proving that challenges are essential for improvement.
