Silence, heatwave, and fake news just before the Final Four – Panathinaikos and Olympiacos enter the battle for a spot in the final

Abu Dhabi is sweltering, with temperatures soaring to 45°C in the shade. Being outdoors for even a few minutes becomes unbearable.

The oppressive heat and humidity create an atmosphere that feels incongruous with a major sporting event—especially one of Europe’s premier basketball tournaments.

Remarkably, despite the Euroleague Final Four taking place, there’s no sign of it anywhere in the city. No posters, no banners, not even a mention at the airport.

It’s as if there’s an intentional effort to render this marquee basketball event invisible.

In this subdued atmosphere, rumors are swirling. Social media is alive with claims of two fans—one from Panathinaikos and the other from Olympiacos—being arrested and deported after a heated exchange filled with insults.

While this information hasn’t been officially confirmed, it underscores the underlying anxiety and scrutiny imposed by local authorities. The United Arab Emirates has a strict no-tolerance policy for misconduct, a reality well understood by visitors.

Despite the backdrop, all attention is on the court. Defending champions Panathinaikos are ready for battle, led by coach Ergin Ataman and featuring key players like 2024 MVP Kostas Sloukas, Lessort, Nunn, and Papagiannis. They face Fenerbahce, coached by Sarunas Jasikevicius, in the first semifinal (6:00 PM Greece time).

Their aim: to secure back-to-back titles, a feat not accomplished since the legendary days of Zeljko Obradovic.

In the second semifinal (9:00 PM Greece time), Olympiacos will take on Monaco. Under the guidance of coach Giorgos Bartzokas, the team, which fell short in last year’s semifinal against Real Madrid, seems poised this time to make a deep run.

The “Reds” are energized and focused, seeking to reclaim their place at the pinnacle of European basketball twelve years after their iconic 2013 victory. Their opponent, Monaco, is talented yet unpredictable.

With Mike James at the helm, along with a dynamic backcourt featuring Okobo and Diallo, the French team has the potential to make an impact—provided they can manage internal tensions and maintain consistency.

Amid this understated environment devoid of fanfare, a local taxi driver succinctly encapsulated the moment’s spirit:
“Panathinaikos is playing Fener, Olympiacos is playing Monaco. Good luck to both.”