By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
PAOK is finalizing a blockbuster addition to its backcourt by securing veteran point guard Nick Calathes on a two-year contract, as confirmed by Eurohoops sources.
The 37-year-old playmaker returns to Greece for the first time since departing Panathinaikos in 2020. Operating under the ambitious ownership of Telis Mystakidis, the highly decorated guard will reinforce the Thessaloniki outfit in both the domestic Stoiximan GBL and upcoming European campaigns, starting at the top of the 2026-27 schedule.
Across 402 career EuroLeague appearances, Calathes stands alone as the competition’s all-time leader in both assists and steals. His sprawling continental resume includes capturing the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague championship with Panathinaikos in 2011 and winning the EuroCup title with Lokomotiv Kuban, where he was named the Most Valuable Player for the 2012-13 season.
Additionally, the former Florida standout brings valuable North American experience, having played 139 NBA games for the Memphis Grizzlies between 2013 and 2015 before further cementing his legacy with European powerhouses FC Barcelona, Fenerbahce Beko, AS Monaco, and Partizan Mozzart Bet.
The marquee deal was first reported by the Greek outlet Sport24.
The veteran is set to take on a crucial locker-room mentorship role, particularly with recently acquired young point guard Nasos Bazinas.
Interestingly, this signing unites Calathes with head coach Andrea Trinchieri for the first time in their respective careers. Despite decades spent operating at the highest levels of international basketball, the two had never crossed paths previously. This was because Calathes missed EuroBasket 2013 during his transition to the NBA, precisely when the Italian play-caller was in charge of the senior Greek national team.