T.J. Shorts is the second signing of Panathinaikos BC AKTOR during the 2025 offseason. Just hours after winning the LNB championship with Paris Basketball, T.J. Shorts became the newest member of Panathinaikos AKTOR. He shared his thoughts on what he hopes to experience and achieve wearing the green jersey over the next two years.

Here is what he had to say:

• Congratulations on winning the championship! How do you feel after such a remarkable season with Paris Basketball, especially now that you are set to join one of the most historic clubs in Europe?
  
  I feel amazing after the season I had with Paris Basketball. I’m even more confident than before, that after all this success, joining now one of the most historic clubs in Europe. I can bring my winning nature and attitude to the team!

• What do you believe could make the upcoming season a special one for you personally?
  
  I believe that the existing guys who are already on the team along with new players like myself can make this a very special year. We’re talking about a team loaded with winners, talent, hunger, and the desire to win everything — that’s what I believe will make this upcoming season a special one.

• In the past, we’ve seen you talking about the Panathinaikos fans…
  
  Panathinaikos fans are truly one of the best fan bases in the world. Now that I get to play in front of them, it’s going to be exciting and a great experience that I really look forward to.

• How did you experience their presence at OAKA this year, and what are you hoping to feel and experience next season?
  
  Well, this past season I was on the other side, and I have to say it was such a nice feeling because they really make the opponents feel the pressure of the game which is incredible. Now that they’ll be on my side, I hope to give them even more energy through the way I play, the way I carry myself, and hopefully give them something extra to look forward to every time they watch us.

• What are your expectations as you prepare to join an exceptional backcourt that includes Kostas Sloukas, Kendrick Nunn, and Jerian Grant?
  
  My expectation is that we can form one of the best backcourts in all of Europe. We’ll push each other to reach new heights and achieve even greater success. Playing alongside big names like Sloukas — who is clearly a legend — and Grant will only add more firepower to the team. I can’t wait to learn and grow even more as a player next to such incredible talent.

• You’ve won titles with every team you’ve played for. What are your goals now that you’re joining Panathinaikos?
  
  My goals are the same every year: to win as many games as possible and to put ourselves in a position, by season’s end, to hoist whatever trophy is in front of you!

• How do you feel about the opportunity to work with such a successful coach like Ergin Ataman?
  
  I feel extremely motivated and excited to work with a successful coach like Ergin Ataman. He’s a proven winner year after year, and I can’t wait to pick his brain, to learn how he operates, and to understand exactly what he expects from me.

• What’s the message you would like to send to the fans of Panathinaikos?
  
  My message to the fans is that I can’t wait to get to Greece. I want you all to not only see the basketball player I am but also get to know the person I am. I’m extremely excited and can’t wait for the season to start!