Former Boston Celtics and Louisville Cardinals coach Rick Pitino is heading to Europe after agreeing to take over Panathinaikos, one of the continent’s most accomplished clubs. The news was confirmed to ESPN by Pitino’ agent Drew Rosenhaus.
Pitino, who left the University of Louisville in 2017, said earlier this year that he wants to return to coaching in the NBA. According to ESPN‘s insider Adrian Worjanowski, the 66-year-old views the job with Panathinaikos as a great stepping stone towards his goal.
The Greek club currently finds itself in a tight position in Europe’s most prestigious basketball competition EuroLeague, where they are currently on the 10th spot with 6-7 record.
Considering the fact that Panathinaikos is expected to make a deep run for the EuroLeague titled each year, Rick Pitino will face a tough job to turn the season around. His debut is expected on December 27.
Pitino had several coaching stints in the NBA during his career, serving as an assistant coach and head coach of the New York Knicks, while also being in charge with the Celtics. His NBA coaching record is 192-220.
However, he was more accomplished at the college level, where he won two NCAA Championships with Kentucky and Louisville.
