German forward Isaac Bonga has opted to remain in Europe, agreeing to a multi-year contract with Greek club Panathinaikos, according to Donatas Urbonas of BasketNews.
Sources told BasketNews the 26-year-old’s deal will include NBA exit clauses after each season, allowing him to pursue a return to the league if a suitable opportunity appears. Bonga had explored NBA options this summer but did not receive the role or competitive situation he wanted. He was linked to the Detroit Pistons in April.
Several top EuroLeague teams expressed interest, including Real Madrid, before Panathinaikos secured the 6’8” wing. Team owner Dimitris Giannakopoulos said Bonga is scheduled for a physical on Wednesday to finalize the signing.
Bonga was selected 39th overall in the 2018 draft and spent four seasons in the NBA before heading back to Europe in 2022. He is coming off a productive year with Partizan Belgrade under coach Zeljko Obradovic, averaging 10.2 points, 5.4 rebounds and 0.9 steals while shooting 49.8 percent from the field, 36.2 percent from three and 83.4 percent at the foul line across 69 games (26.3 minutes per contest).
Internationally, Bonga earned Defensive Player of EuroBasket 2025 honors after helping Germany claim the gold medal.
Source: HoopsRumors
