Fenerbahce Player Predicts Success for Nigel Hayes-Davis at Panathinaikos

Tarik Biberovic believes Hayes-Davis understands the high expectations at Panathinaikos and will thrive under coach Ergin Ataman's system.

Published on Feb. 13, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens have signed forward Nigel Hayes-Davis following his NBA stint, and his former Fenerbahce teammate Tarik Biberovic believes he is well-suited to succeed in his new role. Biberovic, who played with Hayes-Davis from 2022 to 2025, says the reigning Final Four MVP understands the high expectations of Panathinaikos fans and will benefit from coach Ergin Ataman's trust and system.

Why it matters

This is a major in-season move for Panathinaikos as they look to bolster their roster and challenge for titles. Hayes-Davis' addition is seen as a potential game-changer, and Biberovic's endorsement of the fit with Ataman's coaching style adds to the intrigue around this high-profile signing.

The details

Biberovic, who also has experience playing for the Turkish national team under Ataman, believes the coach's approach of trusting talented players and giving them responsibility will benefit Hayes-Davis. While Panathinaikos face Fenerbahce on Friday, Hayes-Davis is not expected to make his debut in that game.

  • Nigel Hayes-Davis played for Fenerbahce from 2022 to 2025.
  • Panathinaikos signed Hayes-Davis following his NBA stint.

The players

Nigel Hayes-Davis

A forward who recently signed with Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens after a stint in the NBA.

Tarik Biberovic

A Fenerbahce player who was teammates with Nigel Hayes-Davis from 2022 to 2025.

Ergin Ataman

The head coach of Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens, known for his trust in talented players and giving them responsibility.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Nigel coming into this team, he knows very well what that means. The fans will expect a lot from him. And I think he accepts that role consciously and willingly.”

— Tarik Biberovic, Fenerbahce Player (Sport24)

“Yes. The coach loves talented players. He trusts them, gives them responsibilities, and lets them do their best.”

— Tarik Biberovic, Fenerbahce Player (Sport24)

What’s next

Nigel Hayes-Davis is not expected to make his Panathinaikos debut in their upcoming game against Fenerbahce on Friday.

The takeaway

Panathinaikos have made a high-profile signing in Nigel Hayes-Davis, and his former teammate Tarik Biberovic believes he is well-suited to thrive under coach Ergin Ataman's system and the high expectations of the Panathinaikos fans.