Eggplant Parm Sliders

Name: Eggplant Parm Sliders
Ingredients: 4 cups (1 quart) vegetable oil, for deep-frying; 1 large eggplant, cut into 8 slices; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs; 1/2 cup all-purpose flour; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon garlic powder or granulated garlic; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 1/4 cup water or milk; 2 large eggs; 4 tablespoons (1/2 stick) unsalted butter, melted; 3 large cloves garlic, grated; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 8 brioche slider buns, split; 6 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into 16 slices; 1 cup warm pasta sauce; Fresh basil leaves, for topping