Gani Lawal: If we stay healthy, we can reach Euroleague Final Four

American-Nigerian big man Gani Lawal talked with Sport24.gr about his season debut in Euroleague with Panathinaikos.

Lawal played last Euroleague game with EA7 against Milano and the first one with the Greens will be again vs. the Israeli powerhouse.

“There is a strange coincidence with my comeback at Euroleague. My last game was in Tel Aviv, against Maccabi, during the play offs, with Armani. Exactly where I am going to play my first one, with Panathinaikos, my first one for this season. It is like my story made a full circle. The only thing i want know is to go over there and win". 

Your manager said that your first comment, after you learn about Panathinaikos' interest, was "this is a chance of a lifetime".
"When you play in Europe, you are looking for chances and you can understand when something it is special. Panathinaikos' offer surely covers the word "special". The first thing i said to myself was "God thanks you". There is a time during your career, when you have the chance to make the most out of it. I am grateful, for this great thing that came in my way". 

About Trabznospor
"I was free, they had a really good offer for me and I signed. Everybody over there showed me love and I thank them for that". 

About Diamantidis (when he came, he said "Diamantidis is the European Steve Nash")
"He has everything. He has been so many times the champion and the best defender. He is so much more than just a great player. He is also a great man. I honestly believe he has... three hands! At any given time, you need to be ready for him to give you the ball." 

In 2011, when you had a serious injury, you said “I am grateful", something that... we haven’t heard from a lot of people
"It was a period that helped me to improve, to be a better player. My body became stronger, through my recovery program. I was out for 9 months and I really worked hard to get back on my feet and in the game. I really feel grateful I succeed it"

Where do you see Panathinaikos, few months from now
"At Madrid. It is not a wish. It is a fact. If we all stay healthy, I don't see any reason why we won't reach at the Final Four.”