DONE DEAL: Former Wisconsin Basketball Standout Captures EuroLeague Title, Takes Home MVP due to….
The European basketball stage witnessed a familiar face shine bright as former Wisconsin Badgers standout Frank Kaminsky led Panathinaikos BC to a thrilling EuroLeague championship victory, capping off the season by earning the prestigious EuroLeague Final Four MVP honors.
Kaminsky, who starred for Wisconsin during their memorable 2014–15 NCAA Tournament run to the national title game, has now etched his name into European basketball history. The 7-foot center delivered a masterclass performance in the EuroLeague Final Four, including a dominant showing in the championship game against defending champions Real Madrid, finishing with 24 points, 9 rebounds, and 4 assists.
The title marks Panathinaikos’ first EuroLeague crown since 2011, and Kaminsky’s leadership on both ends of the floor was critical. Known in his college days for his unique mix of post scoring and perimeter shooting, Kaminsky translated that skill set seamlessly into the European game. Over the course of the EuroLeague season, he averaged 15.8 points, 6.2 rebounds, and shot an impressive 40% from beyond the arc.
In the post-game press conference, Kaminsky reflected on his journey from the Big Ten to basketball’s highest European stage.“It’s been a wild ride. Coming over here, I wanted to prove I could still play at a high level,” Kaminsky said. “To win a title and be named MVP—it’s everything I worked for.”
After stints in the NBA with the Charlotte Hornets, Phoenix Suns, and Atlanta Hawks, Kaminsky made the leap overseas in 2023, joining the historic Greek club Panathinaikos, a team steeped in tradition with six prior EuroLeague championships. While some questioned the move, Kaminsky quickly became a fan favorite in Athens, known for his basketball IQ, clutch shot-making, and veteran poise.
Panathinaikos coach Ergin Ataman praised his big man after the win:“Frank brought stability and leadership. He believed in the team and took over when we needed him most.”
Kaminsky’s MVP nod makes him just the second American in the past five years to win the award, further solidifying the growing presence and impact of former NCAA stars in the EuroLeague. His performance also sparked conversation about a possible return to the NBA, though Kaminsky remained non-committal about his next step.“Right now, I just want to enjoy this. Celebrate with my teammates. This was a special group.”
For Wisconsin fans, Kaminsky’s success rekindles memories of the 2015 NCAA Tournament when he led the Badgers past Kentucky’s undefeated squad in the Final Four. His EuroLeague title adds another chapter to a career defined by adaptability, perseverance, and a love for the game.
From Madison to Athens, Frank Kaminsky has proven that championship DNA travels well. And with a EuroLeague title and MVP trophy now on his resume, his legacy as one of Wisconsin’s most decorated basketball exports is officially sealed.
