Name: Real teamwork from Madrid! Motorola Magic Moment
Channel: Euroleague Basketball

Real teamwork from Madrid! Motorola Magic Moment

Real Madrid v FC Bayern Munich (2025-04-18T18:45:00.000Z)

Kharchenkov’s flying slam! Motorola Magic Moment

FC Bayern Munich has confirmed that All-EuroLeague First Team guard Carsen Edwards will miss tonight’s Play-In Showdown clash at Real Madrid due to a back injury.

Carsen Edwards ruled out for Bayern’s play-in game at Real Madrid

[FC Bayern Munich](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fc-bayern-munich/mun/) has confirmed that All-EuroLeague First Team guard [Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/) will miss tonight’s Play-In Showdown clash at [Real Madrid](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/real-madrid/mad/) due to a back injury.

Just one place remains in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Playoffs, with the winner of the game between Real Madrid and Bayern set to face first-ranked Olympiacos Piraeus in the 1-8 matchup.

Bayern’s task just got a lot harder with the news that Edwards will be unavailable in this do-or-die encounter.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Bad news ahead of our game against Real Madrid tonight: Carsen Edwards, who has just been named to the All-<a href="https://twitter.com/EuroLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@EuroLeague</a> first team, is out for the upcoming weeks with a back injury. More info: <a href="https://t.co/q7utFQYAyi">https://t.co/q7utFQYAyi</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCBB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCBB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeBallTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeBallTogether</a> <a href="https://t.co/YdVtlkEScv">pic.twitter.com/YdVtlkEScv</a></p>&mdash; FC Bayern Basketball (@FCBBasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBBasketball/status/1913255748177379784?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 18, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

“Bad news ahead of our game against Real Madrid tonight: Carsen Edwards, who has just been named to the All-EuroLeague First Team, is out for the upcoming weeks with a back injury,” the club stated in a tweet.

Edwards averaged 20.5 points, 2.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.0 steals per game across 34 regular-season appearances for Bayern this season, before posting 17 points, 4 rebounds, 3 assists, 1 steal and 1 block in [the club’s first-round play-in victory over Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/bayern-advances-with-97-93-overtime-win-over-crvena-zvezda/) on Tuesday night.

With Edwards sidelined, the likes of [Shabazz Napier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/shabazz-napier/011224/), [Nick Weiler-Babb](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nick-weiler-babb/010391/) and [Andreas Obst](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/andreas-obst/004508/) will have to take on even bigger roles in the offense against Real Madrid.

Game News

The All-EuroLeague First Team selection is a late scratch

Euroleague Basketball is pleased to unveil the 2024–25 All-EuroLeague Second Team, honoring five exceptional players whose skill, dedication, and impact stood out throughout a remarkable season.

Euroleague Basketball announces the 2024–25 All-EuroLeague Second Team

Euroleague Basketball is pleased to unveil the 2024–25 All-EuroLeague Second Team, honoring five exceptional players whose skill, dedication, and impact stood out throughout a remarkable season. These players showcased consistency, versatility, and high-level play, having enjoyed pivotal roles in their teams' successes and thrilling fans across the continent. Selected through a combination of votes made by head coaches (35%), team captains (35%), media (20%) and fans (10%), the All-EuroLeague Second Team highlights the depth of talent that defined this memorable EuroLeague campaign.

### Evan Fournier, Olympiacos Piraeus

[Evan Fournier](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/evan-fournier/013380/) returned to Europe last summer and took to the EuroLeague like a duck to water in his rookie season. He showed all the polish and poise of a seasoned pro, becoming a key driver of Olympiacos Piraeus's success. The veteran guard averaged 15.8 points per game while showcasing the shot-making ability and scoring creativity that made him a longtime NBA standout. He had nine games with at least 4 three-pointers made and 13 contests with at least 20 points, including a season-high 28 at Real Madrid in Round 22. Whether curling off screens, pulling up from deep, or breaking down defenders one-on-one, Fournier consistently found ways to put the ball in the basket. But his impact wasn’t limited to offense – he brought leadership, spacing, and control to the Reds' guard rotation. Fournier thrived in crunch time, hitting big shots in tight games – notably [on the road at Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens in Round 8](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/clutch-evan-fournier-decided-the-greek-derby-in-style/) and [at FC Barcelona in Round 26](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/evan-fournier-showed-big-shot-mentality-for-olympiacos/) – and providing a steadying presence on the floor to help Olympiacos finish atop the regular-season standings. For a player returning to Europe for the first time in over a decade, Fournier’s smooth transition was nothing short of remarkable. His first All-EuroLeague Second Team selection honors both his individual excellence and the role he played in Olympiacos's run to the top of the table.

### Juancho Hernangomez, Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens

In his second EuroLeague campaign, [Juancho Hernangomez](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/juancho-hernangomez/012712/) made a major statement for Panathinaikos. The Spanish forward more than doubled his scoring and PIR averages and nearly doubled his rebounding numbers compared to the previous campaign as he became a pillar of the Greens’ frontcourt. Combining finesse with physicality and a high basketball IQ allowed him to excel on both ends. Offensively, he was a versatile weapon, capable of stretching the floor with his shooting, finishing in traffic, or making smart cuts to create opportunities. Defensively, Hernangomez used his length and mobility to defend multiple positions, often switching onto guards and wings with ease. His role grew in the second half of the season with Hernangomez carrying more weight after Mathias Lessort went down with a long-term injury. Hernangomez averaged 10.3 points and 6.7 rebounds per game, with the latter ranking third in the league. His ability to impact games in multiple ways – and his poise in high-pressure situations – made him a consistent difference-maker. His first All-EuroLeague Second Team selection is a reflection of both his strong individual play and his importance to one of the league’s premier teams.

### Mike James, AS Monaco

Another season, another elite campaign from [Mike James](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mike-james/005985/), who continued to make history while leading Monaco with trademark flair and intensity. His isolation scoring, playmaking wizardry, and clutch shot-making once again placed him among the league’s most feared offensive weapons. The EuroLeague’s all-time leading scorer – who in Round 25 [became the first player in EuroLeague history to reach 5,000 career points](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/mike-james-is-the-first-player-to-reach-5000-points-in-the-euroleague/) – was worth 15.8 points and 5.7 assists while starting every regular-season game for Monaco. Beyond the stats, James served as the emotional and competitive engine for Monaco, pushing his team through adversity and delivering highlights. James remained focused on winning, doing whatever was needed to keep his team in contention, and eventually clinching a home-court berth for the playoffs. His inclusion on the All-EuroLeague Second Team is both a recognition of his individual brilliance and a testament to his continued excellence in leading Monaco at the highest level of European basketball. This is James's fifth All-EuroLeague selection, which ties him for the sixth-most in competition history.

### Theo Maledon, LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne

[Theo Maledon](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/theo-maledon/007027/) made his mark this season as one of the breakout stars of the EuroLeague following four years in the NBA, having led ASVEL with maturity and skill well beyond his years. The French guard averaged 17.0 points and 4.6 assists per game while showing tremendous growth as a floor general. He ranked sixth in the league in scoring and his average PIR of 20.6 was fourth-best. Along the way, Maledon set the EuroLeague regular-season records with 208 free throws made and 230 free throws attempted, and his 195 fouls drawn are third-most in a regular season. He was twice the MVP of the Round and was also [the EuroLeague MVP of the Month for December](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/theo-maledon-makes-history-as-december-mvp/). What set Maledon apart was his poise – rarely rattled, he played with a veteran’s understanding of the game, often making the right decision in crucial moments. His combination of athleticism, basketball IQ, and team-first mentality made him one of the most impactful young guards in Europe this season. With his first selection to the All-EuroLeague Second Team, Maledon confirms his status as a rising star on the continental stage.

### Walter Tavares, Real Madrid

[Walter Tavares](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/walter-tavares/005791/) remained a towering force in the paint during the 2024–25 EuroLeague season, continuing his reign as the most dominant rim protector in Europe. The 2.20-meter center from Cape Verde anchored Real Madrid’s defense with trademark shot-blocking and altered countless more attempts with his mere presence. Tavares averaged 10.6 points on 75.3% shooting, 7.1 rebounds and 1.3 blocks in 34 regular-season games. He ranked second in the league in shooting accuracy, rebounds and rejections. The EuroLeague’s all-time leader in shots blocked, he continued making life difficult for opposing bigs and slashing guards alike. Offensively, he provided high-efficiency scoring around the basket, excelled in pick-and-roll situations, and created second-chance opportunities with offensive rebounds. Tavares roared for 24 points and 18 rebounds in a road win at archrival FC Barcelona in Round 12 and later led *Los Blancos* on a six-game winning streak to close the regular season that led to him being named [the EuroLeague MVP of the Month for March-April](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/walter-tavares-named-turkish-airlines-euroleague-mvp-for-march-april/). A multiple-time EuroLeague Best Defender, this is Tavares's sixth All-EuroLeague selection, which is tied for the third-most in competition history.

2024-25 EuroLeague Award Winners

There are three first-time All-EuroLeague selections on the Second Team

With Hapoel Tel Aviv BC having hoisted the EuroCup trophy, it’s hard to imagine the team’s championship run without the mid-season addition of Yam Madar.

Tribute to the Champs: Yam Madar

When [Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/hapoel-shlomo-tel-aviv/hta/) brought [Yam Madar](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/yam-madar/011052/) back to the club from [FC Bayern Munich](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fc-bayern-munich/mun/) in early December, the team likely had high hopes for the impact the young point guard – a former EuroLeague Rising Star winner – could make. Now, with Hapoel having hoisted the BKT EuroCup trophy, it’s hard to imagine the team’s championship run without the mid-season addition of Madar.

It didn't take long for Madar to start shining. He had a career game already in just his second appearance since returning to the club, posting career highs in scoring and index rating with 28 points and a 41 PIR during a Round 11 road loss at Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius. But the very next week Hapoel was already on a run of six wins in seven games, which propelled the team to second place in its group.

Madar averaged 14.3 points on 56.5% three-point shooting, 4.0 assists and 1.3 steals in the second half of the regular season, but he might have displayed his best basketball in the best-of-three semifinal series against Valencia Basket, a series that [saw him named the Semifinals MVP](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/semifinals-mvp-yam-madar-hapoel-shlomo-tel-aviv/).

In the first two games of the series, Madar posted 20.5 points, 6.5 assists, 5.0 rebounds and 2.0 steals, then overcame an injury to play 29 minutes in the deciding Game 3 and help Hapoel reach the EuroCup Finals.

Madar continued playing despite a knee injury, sacrificing for a team that had the chance to make history, and in a 2-0 series sweep against Dreamland Gran Canaria he averaged 13.0 points, making a total of 6 triples on 8 attempts, while posting 5.5 assists as Hapoel climbed the throne.

The math is quite simple. Before Madar’s arrival, Hapoel scored more than 82 points in four of its nine games. With Madar in the lineup, Hapoel scored more than 82 points in 11 of its 13 games. And now, both the club and the player can proudly carry the title of being a EuroCup champion.

More Hapoel Tel Aviv News

A mid-season signing, he lifted Hapoel’s offense and played arguably the best basketball of his career

Euroleague Basketball is proud to announce the 2024–25 All-EuroLeague First Team, which recognizes five of the most outstanding performers from an unforgettable season.

Euroleague Basketball names the 2024–25 All-EuroLeague First Team

Euroleague Basketball is proud to announce the 2024–25 All-EuroLeague First Team, which recognizes five of the most outstanding performers from an unforgettable season. These elite players combined high-level production with leadership, consistency, and highlight-reel performances that shaped the storylines of the campaign. Selected through a combination of votes made by head coaches (35%), team captains (35%), media (20%) and fans (10%), the All-EuroLeague First Team celebrates those who defined the excellence of European basketball this season.

### Nigel Hayes-Davis, Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul

A pillar of versatility and consistency, [Nigel Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/) delivered the best season of his EuroLeague career in 2024–25. As a two-way force for Fenerbahce, Hayes-Davis combined elite defensive effort with an expanded offensive role, becoming one of the most reliable forwards in the league. He averaged 16.8 points, 5.2 rebounds and 1.1 steals per game while shooting 42.3% from beyond the arc. Whether spacing the floor, slashing to the basket, or locking down the opponent’s best wing player, Hayes-Davis contributed in every facet of the game. His physicality and high basketball IQ allowed Fenerbahce to switch defensively with confidence, and his quiet leadership set the tone for a cohesive, disciplined squad. Time and again, he delivered in clutch moments, hitting big shots and making crucial defensive stops to help Fenerbahce finish the regular season in second place. This All-EuroLeague First Team selection – the second of Hayes-Davis's career - is a testament to the invaluable impact he had on one of the league’s top teams.

### Carsen Edwards, FC Bayern Munich

[Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/carsen-edwards/011987/) lit up the EuroLeague this season with his scoring prowess and fearless mentality, becoming a go-to weapon for Bayern in his second campaign with the club and third in the league. The explosive American guard was second in the league in scoring and three-pointers made with 20.4 points and 2.9 triples per game. Edwards also established career highs with 2.3 rebounds, 3.3 assists and 1.0 steals. He scored at least 30 points on five occasions, including a career-high 34 against ALBA Berlin in Round 23, when he earned one of his two MVP of the Round honors. Edwards knocked down at least 5 three-pointers seven times. His lightning quick release regularly shifted the momentum of games as he proved himself to be a high-level competitor who embraced big moments. In a league filled with elite guards, Edwards stood out with his intensity, confidence, and ability to take over games. His first All-EuroLeague First Team honor is a fitting recognition for one of the season’s most electrifying performers.

### Kendrick Nunn, Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens

[Kendrick Nunn](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/kendrick-nunn/012774/) brought scoring flair and unshakable confidence to Panathinaikos in his second season with the club. [The winner of the Alphonso Ford Top Scorer Trophy](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/kendrick-nunn-is-the-2024-25-alphonso-ford-top-scorer-trophy-winner/) delivered clutch performances on the biggest stages to help the Greens claim home-court advantage for the playoffs. Nunn’s explosive first step and smooth shooting from beyond the arc made him one of the most dangerous offensive threats in the league. He also showcased an underrated ability to facilitate, providing leadership and timely assists that helped Panathinaikos to a 22-12 record. Nunn led the league in scoring with 21.1 points per game and in three-pointers made with 3.1, in addition to averaging 4.1 assists and 1.0 steal over 33 regular-season appearances. He scored at least 30 points four times, including a career-high 39 points in Round 16 against EA7 Emporio Armani Milan, and had a dozen games with at least 4 three-pointers made. [Nunn was the EuroLeague MVP of the Month for February](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/kendrick-nunn-shines-as-euroleagues-mvp-for-february/) and the MVP of the Round three times en route to earning All-EuroLeague First Team honors for the second time.

### TJ Shorts, Paris Basketball

In his first full EuroLeague season, [TJ Shorts](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tj-shorts/012608/) proved that size is no barrier to superstardom. The dynamic point guard used his electric pace, sharp decision-making, and fearless playmaking to lead Paris to the postseason. As the heart and soul of the team, Shorts led the league in assists with 7.5 per game and was fourth in scoring with 18.8 points per night. Those numbers, combined with his league-best 6.6 steals per game, helped him rank second in average PIR with 23.3. Shorts amassed six games with a PIR of at least 30, including a 41 PIR against LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne in Round 15. He also led the league with seven double-doubles, including four in a row in a late-season stretch. [Shorts was the MVP of the Month for November](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/paris-star-tj-shorts-selected-as-mvp-for-november/) and the MVP of the Round four times. He dazzled fans with his quickness off the dribble, relentless drives to the basket, and uncanny ability to finish over taller defenders. More than just a scorer, Shorts elevated Paris's tempo and rhythm with his constant energy and court vision, often making the difference in close games with late-game heroics, which led to his inclusion on the All-EuroLeague First Team for the first time.

### Sasha Vezenkov, Olympiacos Piraeus

The 2022–23 EuroLeague MVP authored another historic campaign for Olympiacos that further cements his status as one of the defining players of this EuroLeague era. For [Sasha Vezenkov](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sasha-vezenkov/003469/), it was another season full of scoring brilliance and high-efficiency shooting, combining deadly three-point accuracy with aggressive rebounding and off-ball movement that shredded defenses. A model of consistency, he scored and posted a PIR in double figures every time he took the court. Vezenkov scored at least 20 points in 15 of his 32 regular-season appearances and posted four double-doubles. He was named [the EuroLeague MVP of the Month for January](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/sasha-vezenkov-named-mvp-of-the-month-for-january/) and was the MVP of the Round a league-best five times, including in Round 20, when he [scored 45 points – the third-most in EuroLeague history – against FC Bayern Munich](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/sasha-vezenkov-took-center-stage-on-historic-night-for-olympiacos/). He led the league in PIR with 24.5, ranked third in scoring with 20.2 points and fourth in rebounding with 6.6 boards per game. Vezenkov converted on 65.7% of his two-point shots and 38.7% of his threes. His leadership and calm presence under pressure were key ingredients in his team’s success and his selection as an All-EuroLeague First Team member for the third time.

Two of the five players have achieved this honor for the first time in their careers

Check out what the coaches and players are saying ahead of the second round of the 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Play-In Showdown.

Pregame quotes hub: Play-In Showdown

## Friday, April 18

### Real Madrid vs. FC Bayern Munich (20:45 CET)

**Chus Mateo, Real Madrid head coach**

"Tomorrow we have a final in front of us, a game that can give us the chance to play in the playoffs. We didn't take advantage of the first opportunity we had against Paris and now we have to take advantage of this second and final opportunity against Bayern, a team that has shown throughout the year that it is difficult to beat. Bayern has a lot of talent: they shoot three-pointers very well, they are very good one-on-one, they have very mobile centers, a great ability to punish the opposition after a turnover. They are a team that has shown throughout the year a certain consistency and I think we will have to play a very good game, a complete game, to beat an opponent that plays really good basketball."

**Gaby Deck, Real Madrid forward**

"We head into Friday's match with all the concentration it deserves because it's a final. We had an opportunity on Tuesday that we couldn't take advantage of, but on Friday we have another one. We have a tough game ahead of us because Bayern also wants to qualify for the playoffs. Bayern played very well at home and beat Crvena Zvezda on Tuesday and, if we don't do things right, we can lose, although I think we can also beat anyone if we manage to play our basketball. We have to be connected as a team from minute one to minute 40. There will be good moments and there will be bad moments, but if we don't play mentally together and connected as a group, things will get tough for us. We have to be together."

**Gordon Herbert, FC Bayern Munich head coach**

"We are the underdog in Madrid, but we will try everything to stay in the game until the end. We want to have an open game in the final quarter. To do that, we need to take away their second-chance opportunities, force them into half-court play, and then rebound the ball. They are very big and physical, and we have to stand our ground. Of course, the guys are tired after five games in 10 days, but since Tuesday we've been able to approach things a little more freely. After the Fenerbahce game, there was a lot of pressure on us to prove something. We overcame that and won \[against Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade\], and I’m glad we could give our fantastic fans that victory. That was very important, but at the same time, I had the feeling in the locker room after the game that we’re not satisfied yet: The players know we still have half the journey ahead of us. We have more in mind."

**Vladimir Lucic, FC Bayern Munich guard**

"We're expecting a tough game, it’s all on the line. Real Madrid is still a great championship team, with very experienced players who have already won every title. After the loss to Paris, we will definitely see a reaction from them. They have the best duo in Facundo Campazzo and Edy Tavares, but the entire team undoubtedly has outstanding quality. We have to take the game possession by possession and simply try everything to beat them."

Pregame quotes hub, play-in: 'We can beat anyone if we play our basketball'

He might not receive the same acclaim as some of his teammates, but Bar Timor – one of six Israelis in coach Dimitris Itoudis’s rotation – was a key contributor in Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv’s run to the 2024–25 BKT EuroCup championship.

Tribute to the Champs: Bar Timor

He might not receive the same acclaim as some of his teammates, but [Bar Timor](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/bar-timor/004846/) – one of six Israelis in coach Dimitris Itoudis’s rotation – was a key contributor in [Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/teams/hapoel-shlomo-tel-aviv/hta/)’s run to the 2024–25 BKT EuroCup championship.

After missing Round 1, the 33-year-old Timor played in every game en route to the title, starting four times in 23 appearances and averaging 17:51 minutes per night. He posted 5.1 points, 1.7 rebounds, 2.2 assists, and 0.8 steals per game for the eventual champions.

Timor scored in double digits four times during the regular season, peaking with 15 points in Round 3 against Besiktas Fibabanka Istanbul. His best performance by index rating came in Round 13 at Dreamland Gran Canaria, where he tallied 14 points, 2 rebounds, 2 assists, 3 steals, and a PIR of 19.

Crucially, Timor brought experience to a revamped Hapoel squad, having been with the club since 2020 and part of its EuroCup journey since 2022. He also provided valuable minutes to help rest key players such as Yam Madar, Antonio Blakeney, Marcus Foster, and, earlier in the season, Joe Ragland. In fact, only Timor and Tomer Ginat remain from the 2022–23 roster — Hapoel’s first season in the EuroCup.

While his stats dipped in the postseason, Timor remained a steady presence when called upon — helping guide Hapoel to the 2024–25 EuroCup title, the first continental trophy in the club’s history.

The veteran guard played an important role off the bench for Hapoel this season

Sarunas Jasikevicius of Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul has been voted the 2024-25 Aleksander Gomelskiy Coach of the Year. Jasikevicius was chosen by his peers—fellow Turkish Airlines EuroLeague head coaches.

Sarunas Jasikevicius named 2024-25 Aleksander Gomelskiy Coach of the Year

Sarunas Jasikevicius of [Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/?season=2024-25) has been voted the 2024–25 Aleksander Gomelskiy Coach of the Year, becoming the first Lithuanian head coach to receive the prestigious honor. In one of the closest races in recent memory, Jasikevicius was chosen by his peers—fellow Turkish Airlines EuroLeague head coaches—as the recipient of the season’s top coaching award. Despite dealing with a string of injuries throughout the campaign, Jasikevicius guided Fenerbahce to a [second-place finish](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/standings/) in the regular season with a 23–11 record.

By receiving the Gomelskiy Trophy, Jasikevicius has once again made history. He becomes the first person to win the EuroLeague as a player and later be named the competition’s best coach. Jasikevicius captured four EuroLeague championships as a player—with FC Barcelona in 2003, Maccabi Tel Aviv in 2004 and 2005, and Panathinaikos in 2009—and was named Final Four MVP in 2005. Now 49, “Saras” has also won domestic championships in Lithuania, Spain, and Turkiye as a head coach.

The Aleksander Gomelskiy Coach of the Year Trophy is named after the legendary coach who led ASK Riga to the first EuroLeague title in 1958 and added three more continental crowns between Riga and CSKA Moscow. Gomelskiy also guided the Soviet Union to gold at the 1988 Olympics and remains one of the most decorated figures in basketball history. Euroleague Basketball chose him as one of the 50 Greatest EuroLeague Contributors in 2008. He is also a member of both the Basketball Hall of Fame and the FIBA Hall of Fame. Gomelskiy passed away in 2005.

Jasikevicius edged Georgios Bartzokas of Olympiacos Piraeus in the voting. Gordon Herbert of FC Bayern Munich and Tiago Splitter of Paris Basketball tied for third. Other coaches receiving votes included Luca Banchi (Anadolu Efes Istanbul), Joan Penarroya (FC Barcelona), Oded Kattash (Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv), Ioannis Sfairopoulos (Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade), Zeljko Obradovic (Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade), Pierric Poupet (LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne), Ergin Ataman (Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens), and Vassilis Spanoulis (AS Monaco).

Despite high expectations, Jasikevicius faced immediate adversity. Fenerbahce’s season opener saw star guard [Scottie Wilbekin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahce-confirms-the-worst-scottie-wilbekin-has-torn-his-acl/) suffer a season-ending ACL injury just 125 seconds into the game. Additional key players—[Wade Baldwin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/wade-baldwin-out-with-hamstring-injury/), [Devon Hall](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/devon-hall-to-undergo-surgery-on-hand-injury/), and [Dyshawn Pierre](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/fenerbahces-dyshawn-pierre-sidelined-by-calf-injury/)—missed significant time due to injuries. Only [Nigel Hayes-Davis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nigel-hayes-davis/008962/), [Bonzie Colson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/bonzie-colson/009783/), and [Nicolo Melli](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nicolo-melli/002849/) played in all 34 regular season games, and just eight players appeared in more than 22.

Through a series of roster changes—including the mid-season additions of [Errick McCollum](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/errick-mccollum/005216/) and [Jilson Bango](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/jilson-bango/013696/)—Jasikevicius maintained his team’s competitive edge. Fenerbahce posted multiple six-game winning streaks, highlighted by key road victories at Virtus Segafredo Bologna and Olympiacos. The team tied for the most road wins in the league (11) and remained resilient despite ranking in the bottom half of several statistical categories.

Jasikevicius is now the 13th different recipient of the Coach of the Year award. Only [Zeljko Obradovic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/zeljko-obradovic-is-alexander-gomelskiy-coach-of-the-year/) (three times), [Georgios Bartzokas](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/tae2223-coach-of-the-year-georgios-bartzokas-olympiacos-piraeus/) (three), Ettore Messina (two), [Pablo Laso](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/laso-named-gomelskiy-euroleague-coach-of-the-year-for-second-time/) (two), and [Dimitris Itoudis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/cskas-dimitris-itoudis-is-voted-alexander-gomelskiy-coach-of-the-year) (two) have won it multiple times. Other past winners include Pini Gershon, Dusko Vujosevic, Xavi Pascual, Dusan Ivkovic, [David Blatt](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/david-blatt-voted-alexander-gomelskiy-coach-of-the-year/), [Ergin Ataman](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/coach-of-the-year-ergin-ataman-anadolu-efes-istanbul/) and, most-recently, [Chus Mateo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/chus-mateo-is-voted-by-his-peers-as-the-euroleague-coach-of-the-year).

Looking ahead, Jasikevicius will aim to join an elite group by winning the EuroLeague both as a player and head coach. Only three individuals have achieved that feat: Lolo Sainz, Armenak Alachachian, and the most recent, Svetislav Pesic, who won as a player in 1979 and as a coach in 2003.

2024-25 EuroLeague Award winners

Euroleague Basketball and the Sports Channel have officially announced the extension of their long-standing media rights partnership, securing exclusive broadcasting rights for the EuroLeague in Israel for an additional six years, through the 2030–31 season.

EuroLeague and Sports Channel Extend Exclusive Media Rights Agreement Through 2031

Euroleague Basketball and the Sports Channel have officially announced the extension of their long-standing media rights partnership, securing exclusive broadcasting rights for the EuroLeague in Israel for an additional six years, through the 2030–31 season.

The renewed agreement, secured by Euroleague Basketball’s strategic partner IMG, builds upon a successful collaboration that began in 2016 and reaffirms the Sports Channel’s position as the premier destination for top-tier European basketball in Israel. As part of the deal, the Sports Channel will continue to broadcast all EuroLeague games live, including the high-stakes Play-In Showdown, Playoffs, and the Final Four.

Boasting a team of top-tier commentators—such as Niv Raskin, Ofer Shelah, and former EuroLeague champion Gur Shelef—the Sports Channel will continue to deliver high-quality, insightful coverage for fans across the country.

“We are thrilled to renew our ongoing collaboration with the Sports Channel for the next six years,” said Paulius Motiejunas, CEO of Euroleague Basketball. “Israel is a traditional basketball market with an outstanding and loyal fanbase that deserves the best possible coverage of EuroLeague action. Since 2016, the Sports Channel has consistently delivered a world-class broadcast product and we look forward to continuing this partnership through 2031.”

The extended agreement ensures Israeli fans will continue to enjoy top-level coverage of Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv and 2025 EuroCup Champion Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv as they compete against Europe’s elite, including Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, FC Bayern Munich, Olympiacos Piraeus, and Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens.

Tomer Tourgeman, CEO of the Sports Channel, added: “The EuroLeague, the biggest and most important basketball competition in Europe, is also a weekly cultural event that connects audiences, cultures, and generations of fans. We are proud to continue leading the league’s broadcasts in Israel and thank the EuroLeague management for their continued trust. We will keep investing, innovating, and exciting, closely following the Israeli teams and proudly bringing every game of this competition to every home in Israel.”

On the second episode of The Crossover this season, which is reflecting on the biggest moments of the last 25 to mark the EuroLeague's 25th anniversary, Xavi Pascual and Boniface N'Dong reflect on FC Barcelona's 2010 title victory in Paris.

Xavi Pascual, Boniface N'Dong remember 2010 title triumph on The Crossover

The 2010 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague championship won by [FC Barcelona](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fc-barcelona/bar/) remains the last time that the Spanish club lifted European basketball's ultimate crown.

On the second episode of The Crossover this season, which is reflecting on the biggest moments of the last 25 to mark the EuroLeague's 25th anniversary, Xavi Pascual and Boniface N'Dong reflect on the *Blaugrana*'s 2010 title victory in Paris.

More Barcelona News

Euroleague Basketball has announced the following disciplinary decision pertaining to incidents that occurred in the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Round 34 and Play-In Showdown Game B.

Latest disciplinary sanctions

**Round 34**

- Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade has been sanctioned with fines amounting €25,000 for the throwing of objects onto the playing court and the offensive chants by its fans during the game Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade – Real Madrid, under Article 29.2.f) and 29.2.g) of the Euroleague Basketball Disciplinary Code.

 

**Play-In Showdown Game B**

- Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade has been sanctioned with fines amounting €14,000 for offensive chants by its fans and the throwing of objects onto the playing court during the game FC Bayern Munich - Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade, under Article 29.2.f) and 29.2.g) of the Euroleague Basketball Disciplinary Code.

 

- Mr Nemanja Vasiljevic, General Manager of Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade, has been sanctioned with a fine of €8,000 for committing acts representing a lack of respect against the officiating crew on occasion of the game FC Bayern Munich - Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade, under Article 27.2.b) of the Euroleague Basketball Disciplinary Code.

Nadir Hifi and Kevarrius Hayes enjoyed big nights in the play-in as Paris Basketball defeated Real Madrid to make the EuroLeague Playoffs.

Nadir Hifi, Kevarrius Hayes epitomize sky-high confidence of Paris: ‘We can play with anybody’

Fresh off securing the Turkish Airlines [EuroLeague Rising Star](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/pariss-nadir-hifi-is-the-2024-25-euroleague-rising-star/) Award, [Nadir Hifi](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/nadir-hifi/012640/) was determined to put on a show at Movistar Arena in the play-in. The same can certainly be said of [Kevarrius Hayes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/kevarrius-hayes/010390/), too.

While [TJ Shorts](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/tj-shorts/012608/) deservedly earned plenty of plaudits, [including by this author](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/tj-shorts-laid-the-foundation-for-pariss-memorable-play-in-victory-at-real-madrid/), Hifi and Hayes showed their importance to coach Tiago Splitter’s squad in [Paris Basketball](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/paris-basketball/prs/)'s [73-81 triumph over Real Madrid](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/paris-stuns-real-madrid-in-play-in-73-81-to-set-up-playoff-date-with-fenerbahce/). 

Courtesy of its first-round win in the Play-In Showdown, Paris rubber-stamped its place in the EuroLeague Playoffs and can now prepare for a best-of-five series with [Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/fenerbahce-beko-istanbul/ulk/).

Hifi and Shorts both sat on 11 points at halftime on Tuesday night, while Hayes had 6, all of which came off dimes by Shorts. Real Madrid boasts a frightening group of centers, but on Tuesday night it was [Walter Tavares](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/walter-tavares/005791/) – the EuroLeague’s MVP of the Month for March and April – and [Serge Ibaka](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/serge-ibaka/003583/) who were included on the 12-man roster, with [Bruno Fernando](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/bruno-fernando/013667/) surprisingly left out. Early on, Hayes wanted to make an impression.

One of four players on Paris’s roster with previous EuroLeague experience, Hayes enjoyed a first quarter that he’ll remember for a long time to come.

He got his first points of the night after peeling off a pick and roll with Shorts for a dunk inside to put the visitors 3-5 ahead, then – with Tavares on the bench with 2 early fouls – he blocked Ibaka before combining with Shorts for another big dunk. Next, he stole the ball from [Dzanan Musa](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/dzanan-musa/006540/) to force a jump ball. To put the cherry on top of an excellent opening period, Shorts sent up an alley-oop pass and Hayes was on hand for the slam.

Paris Basketball center Kevarrius Hayes posted 6 points, 1 rebound, 1 steal and 1 block in 5:45 minutes during the first quarter of his team's play-in win against Real Madrid.

Kevarrius Hayes's dominant first quarter

Paris led 22-27 after 10 minutes and 36-46 at the halftime break, with Real Madrid having grabbed 13 rebounds, of which 2 were on the offensive glass. Paris, meanwhile, had 25, with 5 coming on *Los Blancos*’ end of the floor.

“In the first half they had 2 offensive rebounds, \[so we were\] just trying to keep them off the boards as much as possible,” Hayes told [Euroleague.net](http://Euroleague.net)’s Geoff Gillingham in the mixed zone. “It takes a lot and I appreciate them helping me out, rebounding down. Especially if I can’t get it, to make sure Tavares can’t get it and then they’ll take care of it. I feel like we did very good at that tonight and just trying to manage the rebounds as much as possible.”

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">We are Paris Basketball 🖤❤️💙 <a href="https://t.co/Fg2X1aFIVz">pic.twitter.com/Fg2X1aFIVz</a></p>&mdash; Paris Basketball (@ParisBasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/ParisBasketball/status/1912269422514807258?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 15, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

If rebounding was one of the keys to the win, another was the maverick play of Hifi. The 22-year-old – nicknamed “the Prince of Paris” – left the crowd inside Movistar Arena stunned on multiple occasions, showing a creativity in his scoring that was very reminiscent of 2023-24 EuroLeague MVP [Mike James](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mike-james/005985/).

Time after time, Hifi stuck the dagger further into Real Madrid after 20-23 seconds of good defense. He finished the night with 15 points, 4 rebounds and 4 assists, but his sidestep three-pointer over [Sergio Llull](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/sergio-llull/tgb/) with 2:41 minutes to go felt like the decisive basket. Not only did it give Paris a 68-74 lead, but it came at a time when Real Madrid was mounting a late charge.

Paris Basketball guard Nadir Hifi finished with 15 points as his team defeated Real Madrid in the play-in.

Nadir Hifi's field goals vs. Real Madrid

Paris actually came into Tuesday’s play-in game against *Los Blancos* with a 0-2 record in this fixture, but Coach Splitter’s men showed what they are capable of once again on the biggest stage. For Hifi, he is feeling bullish ahead of the series with Fenerbahce, another team that Paris was winless against this season.

“It’s going to be a tough series,” he said to [Euroleague.net](http://Euroleague.net)’s Geoff Gillingham in the mixed zone. “We know how difficult it is to play in Istanbul, but we already lost two times to them and we know how they play. We can win against them, and we should have taken both \[games\] that we lost. I believe in everybody here and we’re going to work hard to get to the Final Four.”

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Scenes 🥳🥳🥳🥳 <a href="https://t.co/OzO76JAycQ">pic.twitter.com/OzO76JAycQ</a></p>&mdash; Paris Basketball (@ParisBasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/ParisBasketball/status/1912442356122427848?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 16, 2025</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Hayes feels the same way.

“We played Fener, we know how they are,” he added. “We just had a big game against them (101-100 in Round 32), unfortunately they hit a shot at the end. But we know we can play with them – we can play with anybody.

“Winning this game \[tonight\] the way we did, I feel like we were very mature, corrected a lot of the mistakes we made earlier this season and walked away with the win tonight. All we’ve got to do is the same thing: just be us, play with pace, and good things will happen.”

There’s no denying the confidence that Paris is playing with right now, and Fenerbahce should be wary about what is to come. A fascinating series awaits, that's for sure.

The two players enjoyed big nights in the play-in as the French side defeated Real Madrid to make the playoffs

Hifi, Hayes epitomize sky-high confidence of Paris: ‘We can play with anybody’

Real Madrid v Paris Basketball (2025-04-15T19:00:00.000Z)

Fresh off being named the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague MVP of the Month for March and April, Real Madrid star center Walter Tavares spoke to Euroleague.net’s Geoff Gillingham at the club’s training complex in Valdebebas to reflect on the last month and a half.

Walter Tavares, March-April MVP: ‘It’s hard these days to be a big man’

Fresh off being named the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague MVP of the Month for March and April, [Real Madrid](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/teams/real-madrid/mad/) star center [Walter Tavares](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/walter-tavares/005791/) spoke to [Euroleague.net](http://Euroleague.net)’s Geoff Gillingham at the club’s training complex in Valdebebas to reflect on the last month and a half.

Tavares, who has equaled Olympiacos Piraeus’s Sasha Vezenkov for the third most MVP of the Month awards all-time with four, discussed a number of topics during the interview.

The 33-year-old explained the evolution of his game over the years, flying the flag for big men in the EuroLeague, Real Madrid’s 6-0 end to the regular season, his game-winning basket against Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade, plus much more.

\- When Bayern beat Real Madrid 97-89 in the season opener, it snapped a four-game losing streak in all games against Real and a four-game losing streak at home against *Los Blancos*.

\- In Round 19, Real beat Bayern 88-76, improving its home record against Bayern to 7-1.

\- In December 2022 in Munich, Real beat Bayern 64-68 with Walter Tavares collecting 14 points, 8 rebounds and tying a club record and career high with 6 blocks.

\- In January 2021, when Real pulled out a 76-81 overtime win in Munich, it was behind a career-high 26 points from Walter Tavares on a career-best 11 made two-point shots.

\- In their lone meeting in the 2019-20 season, a 95-86 Bayern victory in Munich, Bayern made a club-record 32 two-pointers.

\- Real's single-game record for steals by a player is 6, which Gustavo Ayon tied against FC Bayern Munich on December 11, 2015.

\- Real center Serge Ibaka spent last season with Bayern.

\- Bayern guard Shabazz Napier dished a career-high 8 assists while playing for EA7 Emporio Armani Milan against Real Madrid in March 2023.

\- Napier tied his career high with 3 steals in a Round 19 loss in Madrid.

\- Last season in Munich, Real cruised to a 71-92 win. In that game, Facundo Campazzo tied his career high with 7 rebounds.

\- Bayern's Johannes Voigtmann collected a career-high 7 offensive rebounds while playing for Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz against Real Madrid in February 2017.

\- Voigtmann collected a career-high 11 defensive rebounds while playing for Baskonia against Real in March 2019.

Game Videos

The third and final game of this season’s play-in will take place on Friday, with two of the world’s most prestigious clubs battling for the right to advance into the playoffs. 

Game Notes: Madrid vs. Bayern

### Real Madrid

**Streaks**

Mario Hezonja has made at least 1 three-pointer in 13 straight and 43 of his last 44 games.

Walter Tavares has had a PIR of 14 or more in seven of his last eight games.

Tavares has scored 13 or more points in seven of his last eight games.

Tavares has pulled down multiple offensive rebounds in seven of his last eight games.

Dzanan Musa has had at least 1 steal in four of his last five games.

Facundo Campazzo has made at least 1 three-pointer in six of his last seven games.

Campazzo has had at least 1 steal in six straight games.

 

**Season rankings**

Facundo Campazzo ranks eighth in average index rating with 18.1 per game.

Campazzo ranks third in assists with 6.4 per game.

Campazzo is tied for 10th in steals with 1.1 per game.

Walter Tavares ranks second in blocks with 1.3 per game.

Tavares ranks second in rebounding with 7.0 per game.

Tavares ranks fourth in offensive rebounding with 2.7 per game.

Mario Hezonja ranks third in defensive rebounding with 4.8 per game.

Tavares ranks eighth in defensive rebounding with 4.3 per game.

Tavares ranks second in two-point shooting at 74.8%.

Tavares is tied for eighth in two-pointers made with 4.3 per game.

Real leads the league in rebounding with 37.0 per game.

Real leads the league in defensive rebounding with 26.4 per game.

Real leads the league in two-point accuracy at 59.4%.

Real has held opponents to a league-low 51.8% two-point shooting.

 

**Records/Milestones**

Walter Tavares blocked 88 shots in the 2022-23 season to set the all-time single-season record.

Tavares is the competition's all-time leader in blocks with 469.

Tavares is in fourth place all-time in two-point accuracy at 68.6%.

Tavares ranks second all-time with 1,858 rebounds. Paulius Jankunas is the all-time leader with 2,010 rebounds.

Tavares ranks third all-time with 703 offensive rebounds. Felipe Reyes is second with 705.

Tavares is eighth on the all-time list with 4,256 PIR points. Nick Calathes is seventh with 4,295 and counting, and Kyle Hines is sixth with 4,299.

Sergio Llull is the all-time leader in games played with 442 EuroLeague appearances.

Llull is the all-time leader in three-point shots made with 680.

Llull ranks fourth all-time in scoring with 4,181 points. Vassilis Spanoulis is third with 4,455.

Llull is in seventh place all-time with 1,470 assists. Mike James of AS Monaco is sixth with 1,479 and counting, and Milos Teodosic of Crvena Zvezda is fifth with 1,491 and counting.

Facundo Campazzo is in 12th place all-time with 1,107 assists. Shane Larkin of Anadolu Efes Istanbul is 11th with 1,109 and counting.

Llull ranks 12th all-time with 731 free throws made. Paulius Jankunas is 11th with 748.

Llull ranks fifth all-time with a 2.7-to-1 career assist-to-turnover ratio.

Facundo Campazzo is tied for 12th all-time with a 2.6-to-1 career assist-to-turnover ratio.

### FC Bayern Munich

**Streaks**

Carsen Edwards has made at least 1 three-pointer in 14 straight games.

Edwards has scored 12 or more points in 13 straight games.

Edwards has scored at least 17 points in eight of his last nine games.

Edwards has posted a PIR in double figures in 12 of his last 13 games.

Devin Booker has made at least 1 three-pointer in nine straight games.

Nick Weiler-Babb has had at least 1 steal in 12 of his last 13 games.

Andreas Obst has made at least 1 three-point shot in 13 straight of his last 14 games.

Niels Giffey has made at least 1 three-pointer in eight straight games.

 

**Season rankings**

Carsen Edwards ranks second in scoring with 20.4 points per game.

Edwards is second in three-pointers made with 2.9 per game and Andreas Obst is third with 2.8 per game.

Niels Giffey ranks first in three-point shooting at 59.3%.

Nick Weiler-Babb leads the league in steals with 1.6 per game.

Weiler-Babb ranks eighth in assists with 5.0 per game.

Shabazz Napier ranks fifth in free-throw shooting at 94.0%.

Devin Booker ranks fifth in two-pointers made with 4.4 per game.

Edwards is tied for eighth in two-pointers made with 4.3 per game.

Bayern ranks third in scoring with 87.5 points per game.

Bayern ranks first in free-throw shooting at 83.6%.

Bayern ranks second in three-point shooting at 39.2%.

Bayern's defense has allowed a league-high 59.9% on two-point shooting.

 

**Records/Milestones**

Carsen Edwards ranks 10th all-time in free-throw accuracy at 90.2%.

Johannes Voigtmann is ranked 12th all-time with 1,426 rebounds. Georgios Printezis is 11th all-time with 1,452.

Voigtmann is in 10th place all-time in defensive rebounds with 1,061. Printezis is ninth with 1,065 defensive rebounds.

Voigtmann needs 8 blocks to reach 100 for his career.

Voigtmann needs 10 three-point shots to reach 300 for his career.

Nick Weiler-Babb ranks 18th all-time with a 2.5-to-1 career assist-to-turnover ratio.

Devin Booker needs 1 steal to reach 100 for his career.

Booker needs 5 two-point shots to reach 600 for his career.

Booker needs 13 rebounds to reach 800 for his career.

Game Facts: Madrid vs. Bayern

Marcus Bingham's meteoric rise was interrupted this season and his role dwindled by the end of the playoffs, but the promising big man was nonetheless a factor in Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv's march to the BKT EuroCup crown

Tribute to the Champs: Marcus Bingham

[Marcus Bingham](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/marcus-bingham/013506/)'s meteoric rise was interrupted this season and his role dwindled by the end of the playoffs, but the promising big man was nonetheless a factor in Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv's march to the BKT EuroCup crown and is considered a building block for the future. 

Faced with a shortage of frontcourt players in November, Hapoel pried Bingham away from fellow Israeli club Hapoel Holon, with which the 24-year-old was putting up monster numbers. By his second game, Bingham scored [11 points in 16 minutes against Joventut Badalona](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/hapoel-overpowers-joventut-95-70/) and he followed that with [12 points in 13 minutes against Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/wolves-bounce-back-to-down-hapoel-104-100/). 

However, he soon had [a bout of pericarditis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/news/hapoels-marcus-bingham-to-miss-time/), which is the inflammation of the tissue around the heart, and missed the rest of the regular season.

Even when he returned, Bingham played limited minutes in the postseason, but he made the most of every play. Had he featured in enough games to qualify, Bingham would have been the runaway EuroCup leader in blocks on a per-minute basis and ranked eighth in steals with 4.6 and 2.8, respectively, prorated over 40 minutes. He finished the season averaging 4.3 points, 1.8 rebounds, 0.7 steals and 1.1 blocks over 9:34 minutes in nine appearances. 

Bingham saw action in all six of Hapoel's postseason games and used his length and athleticism to be a disruptor at both ends, whether throwing down slams or shutting down the opponents' attack. And now he has a EuroCup crown to show for his efforts.

The midseason addition made the most of every play in his first EuroCup campaign  

Tribute to the Champs: Marcus Bingham  

FC Bayern Munich's Nick Weiler-Babb has been named the recipient of the 2024–25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Best Defender Trophy, recognizing his exceptional defensive performance throughout the season

Nick Weiler-Babb is named the 2024-25 EuroLeague Best Defender

FC Bayern Munich's Nick Weiler-Babb has been named the recipient of the 2024–25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Best Defender Trophy, recognizing his exceptional defensive performance throughout the season. The award, voted on by head coaches from across the EuroLeague, honors the player deemed to have had the greatest impact on the defensive end of the court. Weiler-Babb's relentless energy, versatility, and lockdown perimeter defense have been his calling cards and helped Bayern advance to the postseason for the first time since 2022.

Now in his fifth EuroLeague season - all of which have come with Bayern, Weiler-Babb has built a reputation as a defensive anchor and vocal leader. Throughout the 2024–25 campaign, he consistently drew the toughest assignments, often neutralizing the opposing team's top perimeter threats. His ability to guard multiple positions, combined with elite anticipation and physicality, made him a game-changer for Bayern’s defensive schemes.

Weiler-Babb collected more steals than any other player this season – 52 and counting – for a league-best 1.6 average. He accounted for 22.4% of all of Bayern's steals, while leading all guards in rebounds with 4.2 per night during the regular season.

The Best Defender Trophy is one of several awards that recognize the elite play of the best players in the EuroLeague at the end of the regular season. The first of this season's honorees was Kendrick Nunn of Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens as the winner of the Alphonso Ford Top Scorer Trophy. Nadir Hifi of Paris Basketball was chosen as the EuroLeague Rising Star, another award voted upon by the head coaches. The Alexander Gomelskiy Coach of the Year, All-EuroLeague teams and EuroLeague MVP will be revealed in the coming days.

Walter Tavares of Real Madrid finished second behind Weiler-Babb in the voting for the Best Defender Trophy, followed by Alpha Diallo of AS Monaco, Jerian Grant of Panathinaikos and last season's winner Thomas Walkup of Olympiacos, in fifth place. Others who received votes were Joel Bolomboy of Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade, Arnas Butkevicius of Zalgiris Kaunas, Alessandro Pajola of Virtus Segafredo Bologna and Andre Roberson of LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne.

Weiler-Babb is the 10th different recipient of the EuroLeague Best Defender trophy and the first Bayern player to win it. Dimitris Diamantidis of Panathinaikos Athens won the award six times (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2011). Tavares is a three-time winner, taking home the award in 2019, 2021 and 2023, as is Kyle Hines who claimed the award in 2015 and 2018 with CSKA Moscow and then in 2022 with EA7 Emporio Armani Milan. Bryant Dunston won it with Olympiacos in 2014 and 2015. In addition to Walkup, who won it last season, the other Best Defender honorees include CSKA players Victor Khryapa and Andrei Kirilenko, in 2010 and 2012, respectively; Stephane Lasme in 2013 with Panathinaikos; and Adam Hanga in 2017 with Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz.

The playmaker becomes the first Bayern player to earn this honor