In a recent Instagram post, Dimitris Giannakopoulos, the owner of Panathinaikos BC, expressed frustration over the club's failed attempt to secure player Hayes-Davis. He stated that despite offering the highest bid compared to other clubs interested in the player, including Hapoel Tel Aviv and Fenerbahce, the team received a negative response. This highlights the challenges faced by the club in signing key players, even with competitive financial backing.

Giannakopoulos emphasized the considerable investments Panathinaikos has made, mentioning the highest budget in Europe and contract renewals for all existing players with significant pay increases. He accused critics and media outlets of misleading fans regarding the club's strategies and efforts. His comments reflect a mix of disappointment and the pressure he faces as the head of a prominent basketball team in Europe.

This incident not only underscores the competitive nature of European basketball but also raises questions about the underlying factors influencing player decisions beyond financial offers. This could bring attention to the role of team culture, coaching, and market dynamics in player recruitment, which could further impact Panathinaikos's future operations and strategies in acquiring talent.