Panathinaikos coaching staff hospitalised after gastroenteritis outbreak
Six Panathinaikos members fell ill after a Rhodes tournament; injuries to Kendrick Nunn and Nigel Hayes‑Davis add to the club’s pre-season problems.
Panathinaikos faces a sudden health crisis after members of its staff and playing group were struck by a viral gastroenteritis following a pre-season tournament in Rhodes, the club confirmed on 14 September 2026.
Medical absences compound existing injury problems
The club has already been managing several injury issues since the start of pre-season. Kendrick Nunn and Nigel Hayes‑Davis remain in recovery and are not expected to return to the court for around one month.
On top of those fitness concerns, six members of Panathinaikos — including staff and players — tested positive for a gastrointestinal virus after the Rhodes event. Several of the affected required hospital treatment.
AEK later announced that their players Frank Bartley and Gaios Skordilis were also infected; both teams had been accommodated at the same hotel during the tournament. There is concern within the club that the virus could spread further among the squad.
The coming days will present logistical and sporting challenges for coach Zeljko Obradovic as he tries to keep training and finalise preparations for the new season. Panathinaikos are due to open the campaign on 24 September 2026 against Paris in Athens, after taking part in the Pavlos Giannakopoulos tournament.
Club sources say medical staff are monitoring all contacts and adjusting sessions, but the situation remains fluid ahead of the season opener.
Photo: press material from the event
