Name: Brazdeikis off the glass to beat the buzzer! Motorola Magic Moment
Channel: Euroleague Basketball

Brazdeikis drills an impossible off-balance basket to beat the second-quarter buzzer!


Brazdeikis off the glass to beat the buzzer! Motorola Magic Moment

Zalgiris Kaunas v FC Barcelona (2024-10-03T17:00:00.000Z)

What a pass by Trevion Williams to find Martin Hermannsson for an easy bucket!


 Williams's great pass! Motorola Magic Moment 

 What a pass by Trevion Williams to find Martin Hermannsson for an easy bucket!


ALBA Berlin v Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (2024-10-03T16:45:00.000Z)

Check out what the coaches and players are saying ahead of the opening round of the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season

Pre-game quotes hub: EuroLeague Round 1

The Turkish Airlines EuroLeague finally returns on Thursday with six games, then three more on Friday. Ahead of Round 1, we bring you the pre-game quotes from all the teams in one place. This page will be updated throughout Wednesday, Thursday and Friday with thoughts from the players and head coaches of all 18 teams.

## Friday, October 4

### Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul vs. Olympiacos Piraeus (19:30 CEST)

**Sarunas Jasikevicius, Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul head coach**

"Very happy to be starting the EuroLeague season. Missed the Ulker Arena, missed the fans. Obviously the opponent is top. It’s a great test but like we said, we are starting the grind and we have to be ready. Hoping the fans will appreciate Tyler Dorsey, the thing he did for Fenerbahce and show him respect. Like always against Olympiacos, we expect a very difficult game."

**Nicolo Melli, Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul foward**

"It is always a special game, the first one. We play at home, we play against a great team like Olympiacos. So I know for sure that it’s gonna be a wonderful atmosphere and it’s gonna be a tough game. But we are at home, we have to defend our home court and we will try to get the win. I hope to see the arena full. I cannot wait to play again in this arena. It's nice to be back."

**Georgios Bartzokas, Olympiacos Piraeus head coach**

"As all teams in this period of time, we all trying to figure out what are our potentials through practices. There are many question marks since it is the first EuroLeague game of the season, still we will give our best to get the win. Fenerbache has a great roster and for sure it is going to be a tough game. We have a game plan and if we stick to it, we will have a good chance to win."

**Even Fournier, Olympiacos Piraeus guard**

"It’s a good way to start the season with a tough match up on the road. I am excited and I am looking forward to the game. We will have a good practice tonight and see what happens… When you play on the road, the most important thing is to be focused, to respect the game plan and play together. As far as it concerns me, I don’t think that it will be hard for me to adjust to the European style. Basketball is basketball!"

### Virtus Segafredo Bologna vs. Anadolu Efes Istanbul (21:00 CEST)

**Coach Banchi, Virtus Segafredo Bologna head coach**

"The opening match against Efes will oppose us to one of the great powers of this decade, capable of already showing a high quality of play and cohesion, evidenced by the recent conquest of the Turkish Presidential Cup. They have a deep roster full of players capable of breaking the balance of the game, thanks to their technical and athletic qualities. The home debut in the EuroLeague will be an incentive to produce a game of consistency and continuity, fueled by the enthusiasm of our fans ready to stand by our side, in a season that we want to see us still playing a leading role."

**Will Clyburn, Virtus Segafredo Bologna head coach**

"Another EuroLeague season begins, maybe even more competitive than the past one and that is why it will be very exciting. At Efes I had two great seasons, I still have so many relationships with them, it will be nice and exciting to see them on the court again."

**Tomislav Mijatovic, Anadolu Efes Istanbul forward**

"Obviously a very important game for us in the opening week of the new EuroLeague season at a very tough road game against one of the most experienced teams this year in the EuroLeague. We know that it's gonna take our maximum effort to control the tempo of the offense, the tempo of the defense and the tempo of the game in order to put ourselves in a position to win the game - what we are going to Bologna for - and start the EuroLeague season with a great victory on the road. Of course, like I said, it's going to take 40 minutes of effort against a very well coached and a very experienced team. But our guys are ready and working very hard, and we're preparing to the maximum for that effort on Friday."

**Shane Larkin, Anadolu Efes Istanbul head coach**

"Virtus Segafredo Bologna is a very talented and an experienced team. They understand it is important to win home games in EuroLeague and will try to open the season with a victory. We have to be focused and the more aggressive team on both sides of the court. If we do that, I think we have a great chance to win."

### Paris Basketball vs. Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade (21:00 CEST)

**Ioannis Sfairopoulos, Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade head coach**

"Paris is a team that plays with a lot of enthusiasm and energy, especially now that they are playing the first game, so they will be extra motivated. We have been practicing hard for couple of days, and are preparing for their defense and offense. We know their strengths and will try to disrupt anything they want to do in the offense."<br>
<br>
**Luka Mitrovic, Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade center**

"The long-awaited start of the Euroleague! We are motivated, we worked well in practices in the previous period and I think we are ready. Against us, we have a new Euroleague team that will definitely be motivated to show themselves in the best possible way, and to show that they belong in this competition. An atypical team, somewhat unknown to all of us, especially in the early stages of the competition."

2024-25 season to mark the EuroLeague’s 25th anniversary


## Thursday, October 3

### ALBA Berlin vs. Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens (18:45 CEST)

**Israel Gonzalez, ALBA Berlin head coach:**

"Panathinaikos has an incredibly strong roster. They’re the defending EuroLeague champions and have only strengthened their rotation this season. It will be a tough game, but we're playing at home and want to show a team performance to bring all our energy onto the court. Intensity will play an important role, especially in the zone, in order to control Panathinaikos's strengths under the basket."

**Elias Rapieque, ALBA Berlin forward:**

"Playing against the defending champions right at the start of the EuroLeague is of course a huge task. But we have nothing to lose and are also playing at home at Uber Arena. That's definitely something special and will give us a bit of extra motivation. We have to keep the intensity high and have fun on the court as a team."

**Ergin Ataman, Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens head coach**

"We ended last season with a title in Berlin, and now we start the new season on the road in Berlin. We are ready for the season. All teams are strong, all teams want to win every game, especially when you play on the road it is very dangerous. Maybe some think ALBA is not a candidate for the place in the playoffs, but rosters on the paper is different than the game. In the opening round of the EuroLeague, in the entire first half of the season, everyone fights for as many victories and have a goal to reach the playoffs. It is very important to be calm, in the road game to play aggressive basketball with game discipline. Every game, especially in the beginning of the EuroLeague, is dangerous. Lorenzo Brown practiced with the team, I hope he will practice again \[Wednesday evening\] and I think he will be on the court \[against ALBA\]."

**Marius Grigonis, Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens guard**

"It is always fun for me. I played there so it is really fun to visit the city, to see the familiar faces, and obviously last season was a happy ending for us there. In the EuroLeague you can never underestimate a team. Whether it is ALBA or Real Madrid, you have to play the same way. We are not 100% percent, but we are getting there. We are the champions team, we have a lot of character, so one loss \[in the Greek Super Cup against Olympiacos\] will not affect us."

### Zalgiris Kaunas vs. FC Barcelona (19:00 CEST)

**Andrea Trinchieri, Zalgiris Kaunas head coach**

"This is one of the strongest EuroLeague campaigns ever. And besides the fact it will be fun to watch, we have to swim these seas. A lot of shakes, a lot of big teams, a lot of talented players. I am thrilled, but the challenge, the task, it will be tough. I am 100 percent sure, and we have to keep focus one game at the time trying to push ourselves over the limits. And have in mind that the only thing we can do in this EuroLeague is to play the best basketball that we can and to be the best version of ourselves, players and coaches, and if we do these two things the score will take care of itself. We should not focus primarily on the scoreboard, because it may happen and it will happen that we do whatever we can but the other team will be better. Because the level of talent, strength and power of many teams is very, very high."

"\[Against Barcelona\], we have to understand early in the game what kind of game it will be, because nobody knows. It is the first game."

### AS Monaco vs. EA7 Emporio Armani Milan (19:00 CEST)

**Ettore Messina, EA7 Emporio Armani Milan head coach**

"We are about to start a very high-level competition, very tough one. Each one of us will have to play for 34 games with concentration, attention to detail and with the best interests of the team at the top of his mind. During the preseason and up to the first Italian League game we demonstrated a good potential. However, we have to show it every game and for 40 minutes especially on the road, especially against top level teams such as Monaco, our first opponent."

**Nenad Dimitrijevic, EA7 Emporio Armani Milan head coach**

"It will be a tough game against a very competitive team, one of the best over the last three seasons. They made the Final Four a couple of years ago. They are a very physical team, with talented players. We need to approach this challenge the right way and try to get out of Monaco with a win. I was waiting the opportunity to play in the EuroLeague for some time, and to do that with a club like Olimpia Milan is a privilege."

### Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz vs. Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (20:30 CEST)

**Zeljko Obradovic, Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade head coach**

"It's the first game in the EuroLeague, and we are entering with high ambitions. We had some preseason games with EuroLeague teams. What I would like to see in this game is that we continue to play the same way we have done so far, with the same desire and energy that we've had in all the games we've played up to now. I think that's the most important thing. Talking about the court there, it’s always a tough place to play. Baskonia, despite changing the team and coach, maintains the same style of play. What’s specific about Pablo Laso’s teams is a lot of transition, a lot of individual solutions, isolations, one-on-one play, offensive rebounding and, of course, a player who is very important — Markus Howard, who is capable of taking over 15 three-point shots. So, we've already gone through all of that, we are ready, and we'll see how everything goes tomorrow."

**Brandon Davies, Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade center**

"We are very excited to get the EuroLeague underway and started. Baskonia is a great team, very gifted and talented offensively. So, we need to make sure that we are also strong on offense ourselves. I've played against them many times in the ACB and EuroLeague, so I think we will be prepared."

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

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

"It’s one of the best teams in Europe, a giant in European basketball. We have to find ways to deal with their strengths, which is a challenge for the players and the coaches. But we need to impose our will on them, be physical."

**Niels Giffey, FC Bayern Munich forward**

"Real is always under pressure, but it certainly wouldn’t be easier to beat them if they played here on May 3rd. We have to approach this season as underdogs; we won’t often be the favorites. But I’m not thinking about who comes when. You have to play against these teams, anyway. We want to prove ourselves at this level. I really like the arena. I think the atmosphere will be amazing."

**Chus Mateo, Real Madrid head coach**

"Tomorrow we play a big game for both teams because it marks the start of a competition in which we are usually at the top, competing to win the title. Hopefully, this year we can say at the end that, once again, we have competed to win the trophy. Now we are starting to get to know each other as a team and we have to be patient, do things well and put our best foot forward. This is the key to being in a position to fight for titles throughout the year."

**Sergio Llull, Real Madrid guard**

"We face this new edition of the Euroleague, as always, with great desire, with great enthusiasm and being aware that we are in for a very tough competition since all the teams have reinforced themselves incredibly well. Our objective is none other than to try to fight for the title, which is what we have done in recent seasons.. Tomorrow we have a big game in Munich. Bayern inaugurates its new arena and we expect a tough match against a rival that always makes things very difficult for us and with a crowd that is very supportive at all times, although we will try to play good basketball and win."

### Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv vs. LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (21:00 CEST)

**Oded Kattash, Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv head coach**

"Under the circumstances, we are excited to start another EuroLeague season, a really challenging one. The first rounds in the EuroLeague ae always difficult, it is hard to predict who is going to win. We play at home, unfortunately not in front of our crowd, but we have to come out really focused and aggressive. We saw ASVEL, it is a dangerous teams, they try to create a lot of movement on their offense. Our job is first of all defensively, to try to slow them down. I expect a tough game."

Pre-game quotes hub: 'There are many question marks'

Virtus Segafredo Bologna v Anadolu Efes Istanbul (2024-10-04T19:00:00.000Z)

Paris Basketball v Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade (2024-10-04T19:00:00.000Z)

Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul v Olympiacos Piraeus (2024-10-04T17:30:00.000Z)

FC Bayern Munich v Real Madrid (2024-10-03T18:45:00.000Z)

Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz v Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade (2024-10-03T18:30:00.000Z)

Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv v LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne (2024-10-03T19:00:00.000Z)

AS Monaco v EA7 Emporio Armani Milan (2024-10-03T17:00:00.000Z)

Gran Canaria moved to 2-0 in this year's EuroCup by beating Buducnost, and it showed a level of spirit that usually comes with champions.

Gran Canaria showed in Podgorica why it is a EuroCup contender

If it wasn’t for the first-half heroics of Caleb Homesley, Dreamland Gran Canaria would have been in serious trouble on the road at Buducnost VOLI Podgorica on Wednesday night. The 27-year-old American ended up scoring 10 points in the first quarter before adding a further 5 in the second, taking his total to 15, yet Jaka Lakovic’s men trailed 25-20 and then 44-38. Not an unassailable margin, but a deficit nonetheless.

Homesley kept charging in the third and added a further 5 points, but he appeared to twist his ankle after bumping into a referee, meaning his scoring output of 20 points had to be put on hold. For Gran Canaria, which trailed 52-49 with 4:41 minutes to go in the third when Homesley went out, it was a matter of sink or swim.

Game Videos

Ultimately, Gran Canaria’s players chose to swim. The likes of George Conditt, Andrew Albicy, Nico Brussino and Joe Thomasson all stepped up in Homesley’s absence, helping their team take a 58-62 advantage into the final frame of regulation. The first half of the fourth quarter couldn’t have gone better for Coach Lakovic and his troops, either, as back-to-back three-pointers by Carlos Alocen and Brussino opened a game-high 12-point lead (63-75).

From there, though, Buducnost regrouped and went on to force overtime after some heroics by Fletcher Magee and three made free throws by Yogi Ferrell with two seconds remaining. That must have been a big frustration for the visiting team, yet Homesley moved to 23 points with a wing three as Gran Canaria struck first, then Mike Tobey made the most of a mismatch before scoring off the glass (81-86). Buducnost made Gran Canaria sweat when Ferrell hit a corner three (86-86) with 41.3 seconds left, but John Shurna – the 2023 EuroCup Finals MVP – appeared with a timely three-pointer in the corner, his first points of the game, in what proved to be the final score of the night.

Game News

Watching Gran Canaria, it is clear that Lakovic is still working the new players into the rotation, but the signs are good. After all, managing to win a game in which the team suffered at various points is the sign of a group that can go far. Gran Canaria now finds itself with a perfect 2-0 record, and it knows it has more levels to reach.

Last year’s eighthfinals exit to Besiktas Fibabanka Istanbul was a big blow, especially after winning the whole thing in 2023, but this squad has what it takes to lift the trophy once again. If the only way is up for Gran Canaria, it should spell bad news for the rest of the teams in Group B.

An array of players came to the fore in an impressive Round 2 win

Buducnost VOLI Podgorica v Dreamland Gran Canaria (2024-10-02T17:00:00.000Z)

Take a look at the EuroLeague team captains' survey for 2024-25!

Team captains' survey for 2024-25

You can't stop Mike James!

Welcome to the EuroLeague, Evan Fournier!

Dreaming of Real Madrid's Walter Tavares...

A highlight-reel machine!

An experience everyone looks forward to

The most talented player in the EuroLeague? It's a tie!

Having the ball on a string...

Just like every year, we have approached the 18 captains of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague teams with a few questions on their predictions for the new season. Here are their answers.

Here you can find all the latest injury news surrounding all registered players in the 2024-25 EuroLeague season.

EuroLeague injury report

Follow all the latest injury information for registered players in the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season, as reported by the clubs, and get your [EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge](https://euroleaguefantasy.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/home?_ga=2.101462721.1199459303.1696273873-903329349.1669636775) teams up to date!

**ALBA Berlin**

Gabriele Procida, who was questionable with foot problems, is not on the gameday roster.

Malte Delow is out after a concussion.

Matt Thomas is out with a knee injury.

Ziga Samar is out with a foot injury.

**Anadolu Efes Istanbul**

Efes has listed all of its players available for its Round 1 game at Virtus on Friday.

**AS Monaco**

The reigning EuroLeague MVP Mike James, who was a game-time decision for the opener against Milan, is on the gameday roster.

[Nick Calathes](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/nick-calathes-out-3-4-weeks-with-knee-injury/) will miss 3-4 weeks due to a knee injury.

There are no other reported injuries from Monaco.

**Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz**

Kamar Baldwin and Donta Hall did not play in the Spanish League over the weekend. Their Round 1 status is uncertain.

Baskonia has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game vs. Partizan.

**Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade**

Branko Lazic is out for Round 1 game in Paris with a leg injury.

[Milos Teodosic](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/round-34-disciplinary-sanctions/) will miss Round 1 and Round 2 games due to suspension.

**EA7 Emporio Armani Milan**

Milan has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game at Monaco.

**FC Barcelona**

Willy Hernangomez, who did not play in the Spanish League over the weekend, is on the gameday roster.

Dario Brizuela, another who did feature in the Spanish League over the weekend, is not on the gameday roster.

Barcelona has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game at Zalgiris.

**FC Bayern Munich**

Bayern has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game vs. Real Madrid.

**Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul**

Tarik Biberovic is out with an injury for Round 1 against Olympiacos.

**LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne**

ASVEL has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game against Maccabi.

**Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv**

Wenyen Gabriel will miss Round 1 due to injury.

Maccabi has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game against ASVEL.

**Olympiacos Piraeus**

Moustapha Fall (injured), Nikola Milutinov (injured), Keenan Evans (injured) and Naz Mitrou Long did not travel with the team for Round 1 game at Fenerbahce.

Shaquielle McKissic travelled and is available for Round 1.

**Panathinaikos Athens**

Kostas Antetokounmpo is out for the season opener against ALBA with a right thumb fracture.

Panathinaikos has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game at ALBA.

**Paris Basketball**

Paris has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game vs. Crvena Zvezda on Friday.

**Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade**

Duane Washington has travelled to the United States with a permission of the team and is not available for the season opener at Baskonia.

Isaiah Mike is will miss Round 1 game due to a calf injury.

Mitar Bosnjakovic and Aleksa Dimitrijevic did not travel with the team.

**Real Madrid**

Mario Hezonja did not play in the Spanish League over the weekend and is out for Round 1.

Serge Ibaka did not play in the Spanish League over the weekend, but he is available.

Real Madrid has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game at Bayern.

**Virtus Segafredo Bologna**

Tornike Shengelia did not play in the Italian League game over the weekend. His status is uncertain for Round 1 vs. Efes on Friday.

Virtus has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game against Efes.

**Zalgiris Kaunas**

[Brady Manek](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/news/zalgiris-kaunas-brady-manek-out-for-three-weeks/) will not play in Round 1 due to an ankle sprain.

Zalgiris has not sent an injury report for its Round 1 game against Barcelona.

Stay up to date with the latest information provided by the EuroLeague clubs

Injury report, Round 1: Olympiacos missing four in action

Euroleague.net's team of experts – Javier Gancedo, Geoff Gillingham, Frankie Sachs and Igor Petrinovic – have made their bold predictions for Round 1 of the 2024-25 season.

Bold predictions, Round 1: Road winners are the theme

Ladies and gentlemen, the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season is upon us! Some 130 days after Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens was last seen lifting the EuroLeague trophy in Berlin, Germany, we are back for the start of a new campaign. 

All 18 teams – which includes one newcomer, Paris Basketball – have everything to play for at this point, and even though it is just Round 1, you can bet your bottom dollar that the Every Game Matters mantra is truer now more than ever.

Ahead of the opening set of games, the [Euroleague.net](http://Euroleague.net) experts have each selected one bold prediction that they believe will come true.

### Milan upsets Monaco on the road

### *By Javier Gancedo*

I really like the way Milan improved its roster this season, adding Josh Nebo to play way above the rim and Neno Dimtrijevic, whose development was one of the best kept secrets in European basketball. Milan has won the Italian Super Cup, Shavon Shields and Nikola Mirotic are healthy, and the team should take off right away, starting with a road win at Salle Gaston Medecin. Even if Mike James plays, it will be his first game of the season after not featuring domestically following surgery. Milan already won in Monaco last season with six players scoring in double digits. Nebo gives Milan a physical advantage in the paint against most teams, being a terrific offensive rebounder. The way I see it, Milan gets its first win right away.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="it" dir="ltr">LO SAPEVI?<br>🇮🇹Quattro giocatori dell’Olimpia stasera faranno il loro debutto in EuroLeague<br>🇬🇧Four Olimpia players will make their EuroLeague debut tonight<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/insieme?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#insieme</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ForzaOlimpia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ForzaOlimpia</a> <a href="https://t.co/z0ilyjO7ty">pic.twitter.com/z0ilyjO7ty</a></p>&mdash; Olimpia Milano (@OlimpiaMI1936) <a href="https://twitter.com/OlimpiaMI1936/status/1841808014405173712?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### Partizan among a bunch of road winners

### *by Frankie Sachs*

Is there such thing as a bold prediction in Round 1? Do any of us know anything yet? I can make a case for both teams in almost any game this week. That said, one I believe in that might be going against the grain is that Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade opens the season with a road win. The Partizan lineup is stacked and head coach Zeljko Obradovic knows how to get the most out of talent. Whether they will hit the ground running against a strong Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz team is the only question, and I believe the answer is yes. I would bet that more than half of Round 1 games are won by the road teams, with Partizan standing proudly atop that list.  

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Morning practice.✊🏽<br><br>📍Vitoria, Spain | 🔜 <a href="https://twitter.com/EuroLeague?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@euroleague</a> round 01 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/KKPartizan?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#KKPartizan</a> <a href="https://t.co/KASpxkWPd5">pic.twitter.com/KASpxkWPd5</a></p>&mdash; KK Partizan Mozzart Bet (@PartizanBC) <a href="https://twitter.com/PartizanBC/status/1841775185617420512?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### Fenerbahce to down Olympiacos in a thriller

### *by Geoff Gillingham*

The standout game in Round 1, at least from my perspective, is when Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul hosts Olympiacos Piraeus – two teams seem like locks to make the Final Four next May – on Friday night. Both teams have done an impressive job at improving their rosters this past summer, but I think new Fenerbahce signings Wade Baldwin, Bonzie Colson and Nicolo Melli will all have telling impacts en route to a opening-round triumph. That is not to say that I think it will be easy; I expect it to go down to the final minutes, then Fenerbahce pulls it out right at the end.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">Büyük Fenerbahçe Taraftarı ile buluşma zamanı! 💛💙<br><br>Yarın 20.30’da evimiz Ülker Spor ve Etkinlik Salonu’nda buluşuyoruz!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/YellowLegacy?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#YellowLegacy</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EuroLeague?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EuroLeague</a> <a href="https://t.co/cmatbsC8z9">pic.twitter.com/cmatbsC8z9</a></p>&mdash; Fenerbahçe Beko (@FBBasketbol) <a href="https://twitter.com/FBBasketbol/status/1841825995986276827?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### With or without Larkin, Efes will beat Virtus

### *by Igor Petrinovic*

Will Clyburn, Anadolu Efes Istanbul's second-best scorer (13.3 ppg.) and top rebounder (4.6 rpg.) last season moved from the Turkish side to Virtus Segafredo Bologna over the summer, creating an ideal storyline entering this Round 1 bout. Back in mid-April, Virtus downed Efes on the road in their exciting first-round matchup in the Play-In Showdown. With Clyburn as its new star, Virtus now awaits Efes in the season opener on its home floor at Unipol Arena. So, a bit of addition and subtraction suggests that Virtus, with Clyburn, will have an upper hand on Efes, now without Clyburn, who played more than 28 minute per game a season ago. In addition, Efes might not have Shane Larkin, who missed all of Efes's preseason games, including the Turkish Super Cup on Sunday. But with or without Larkin, I say the Tomislav Mijatovic-led Efes will emerge victorious from Bologna.

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="tr" dir="ltr">💪 Hasret bitiyor, heyecan başlıyor! <br><br>🆕 Yeni zaferler, yeni hikayeler için yine birlikteyiz!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/BenimYerimBuras%C4%B1?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#BenimYerimBurası</a> <a href="https://t.co/oOq8b2j52v">pic.twitter.com/oOq8b2j52v</a></p>&mdash; Anadolu Efes SK (@AnadoluEfesSK) <a href="https://twitter.com/AnadoluEfesSK/status/1841752866760872223?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">October 3, 2024</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

Euroleague.net's team of experts have each come up with one valiant forecast ahead of the opening round of the 2024-25 season

The 2024-25 EuroLeague season gets underway on Thursday, October 3, and that marks the start of a new series by Euroleague Basketball called ‘Rivalry Series’, which focuses on one key fixture each round. To kick things off is FC Bayern Munich hosting Real Madrid this Thursday night at the brand-new SAP Garden, which opens its doors on the continental stage for the first time. 

The EuroLeague's Rivalry Series is ready for lift-off

The 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season gets underway on Thursday, October 3, and that marks the start of a new series by Euroleague Basketball called ‘Rivalry Series’, which focuses on one key fixture each round. To kick things off is FC Bayern Munich hosting Real Madrid this Thursday night at the brand-new SAP Garden, which opens its doors on the continental stage for the first time.

Rivalry Series games will build on historic and new rivalries around the league by focusing on creating momentum on a round-by-round basis, sparking the conversation among fans.  Rivalry Series will hit EuroLeague platforms using a 360º strategy, be that on social media, the website or the broadcast itself. On-site social media coverage, a pre- and post-game show for selected Rivalry Series games, special podcasts recorded at the newly built studio at Euroleague Basketball headquarters and much more to bring fans even closer to the action for the biggest games in the EuroLeague calendar.

Rivalry Series fixtures will include the Istanbul, Spanish, Greek, Serbian and Italian derbies, as well as the clash between Paris Basketball and Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens – last year’s winners of the BKT EuroCup and EuroLeague, respectively – and a rematch of the 2024 championship game between the Greens and Real Madrid, among many more.

Fans will be brought even closer to the protagonists – the players

In Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem's first BKT EuroCup win in nearly seven years, playmaker Jared Harper led the efforts and earned his first MVP of the Round honor in just his second appearances in the competition. 

 Jared Harper | Round 2 MVP | 2023-24 BKT EuroCup 

In Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem's first BKT EuroCup win in nearly seven years, playmaker Jared Harper led the efforts and earned his first MVP of the Round honor in just his second appearances in the competition.

Jared Harper | Round 2 MVP | 2023-24 BKT EuroCup

7Bet-Lietkabelis Panevezys v Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem (2024-10-01T16:00:00.000Z)

Euroleague Basketball and MaxBet will continue their fruitful partnership for another two seasons. MaxBet first joined the family of sponsors for the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and the BKT EuroCup as the Premium Betting Partner in Serbia and Montenegro for the 2021-22 season. As such, the two sides have locked in their commitment to one another for a fifth season.

MaxBet to remain Euroleague's Premium Betting Partner in Serbia and Montenegro through 2026

Euroleague Basketball and MaxBet will continue their fruitful partnership for another two seasons. The start of the prestigious competition was marked by a special event for media representatives at MaxBet Sportcaffe, where attendees had the opportunity to have fun and test their basketball knowledge.

MaxBet first joined the family of sponsors for the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague and the BKT EuroCup as the Premium Betting Partner in Serbia and Montenegro for the 2021-22 season. As such, the two sides have locked in their commitment to one another for a fifth season.

The relationship between Euroleague Basketball and MaxBet is a perfect fit for the long-term strategic interests of both parties. The exclusivity and lasting partnership with Europe's premier basketball competitions help raise MaxBet's brand awareness as one of the leading gaming operators in Central and Eastern Europe.

"Collaboration with the Euroleague is not only a strategic step for MaxBet, but also a strong signal of our commitment to further enhancing the quality of offerings for sports fans. The upcoming season will be marked by even more exciting moments, and our users will have the opportunity to enjoy exclusive promotions and prizes, as well as to become part of a unique sports experience during the EuroLeague and EuroCup. I want to thank the Euroleague for the trust and support we have received so far. I expect that we will continue to develop and strengthen our collaboration together, taking advantage of all the opportunities that premium status offers, in order to enrich our users' experience and contribute to the popularization of basketball in the markets of Serbia and Montenegro," said Savo Bakmaz, CEO of MaxBet.

"Our previous experiences with MaxBet have been incredibly positive, so it is a pleasure to partner with one of the leaders in the betting and gaming business once again," said Gawain Davies, Euroleague Basketball Chief Commercial Officer. "Serbia and Montenegro remain two key markets for Euroleague Basketball. MaxBet have been a great partner for Euroleague Basketball, and we look forward to working together to deliver value for our customers in this market."

As the Premium Betting Partner, MaxBet will have a prominent on-court presence in EuroLeague and EuroCup games in Serbia and Montenegro. That presence includes engaging local fans with contests and promotions involving EuroLeague merchandise and game tickets. In accordance with the agreement, MaxBet, whose network includes more than 400 gaming locations in addition to online channels, will soon release a new enhanced package of advertising rights both on court and digital, too.

The deal extends the partnership which first began in 2021

In Hapoel Jerusalem's first EuroCup win in nearly seven years, playmaker Jared Harper led the efforts and earned his first MVP of the Round honor in just his second appearances in the competition. 

Round 2 MVP: Jared Harper, Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem

In Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem's first BKT EuroCup win in nearly seven years, playmaker [Jared Harper](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/eurocup/players/jared-harper/011970/) led the efforts and earned his first MVP of the Round honor in just his second appearances in the competition. In a 74-94 road win over 7Bet-Lietkabelis Panevezys, Harper scored 23 points, making 2-of-7 two-point shots, 1-of-6 three-pointers and 16-of-17 free throws, which are the most free throws made in a single game in more than a decade. He also had 5 assists, a block, a rebound and a steal, while drawing 10 fouls and accumulating a PIR of 27, the highest among players on winning teams.

This round's best PIR, 28, belongs to three players on losing teams: [Kassius Robertson](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/eurocup/players/kassius-robertson/012740/) of Joventut Badalona, [Tyler Ennis](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/eurocup/players/tyler-ennis/008858/) of Umana Reyer Venice and [Tre'shawn Thurman](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/eurocup/players/tre-shawn-thurman/012577/) of Wolves Twinsbet Vilnius. Robertson had 17 points, 8 assists and 2 rebounds in an 87-83 loss at ratiopharm Ulm; Ennis collected 23 points, 8 rebounds and 6 assists in an 87-82 loss at Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana; and Thurman scored 29 points with 2 rebounds in an 89-84 loss at Hapoel Shlomo Tel Aviv. Rounding out the list of top performers are two players with a PIR of 26: [Caleb Homesley](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/eurocup/players/caleb-homesley/011251/) of Dreamland Gran Canaria and Jerusalem's [Yovel Zoosman](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/yovel-zoosman/006625/). Homesley had 23 points, 4 rebounds and 2 assists in an 86-89 overtime win over Buducnost VOLI Pogorica, while Zoosman had 20 points, 5 assists, 2 assists and 2 steals against Lietkabelis.

Fans of the EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge are in for a treat heading into the 2024-25 season. Here's is a reminder of the basic rules, deadlines, scoring charts, and some important tips from our experts on details that can make your teams more successful, all in one place.

EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge: Rules, deadlines and tips

For all fans and managers competing in the [EuroLeague Fantasy Challenge](https://fantasychallenge.page.link/game), here is a reminder of the basic rules, deadlines, scoring charts, and some important tips from our experts on details that can make your teams more successful, all in one place.

### Basic Rules

Fantasy managers get 100 credits per team to build their initial team: a squad of four guards, four forwards, two centers and one head coach. So, a total of 10 players and one coach.

### Deadlines

At the end of each **round,** you can sell and buy players to improve your fantasy team. All the changes on each fantasy team need to be submitted before the first game of the next round tips off.

Each round is divided into **turns**, which are equivalent to the block of games played on a single day. Between Turn 1 and Turn 2, you can change the formation, captain and make alterations between those on court and those on the bench. You can move players from the bench into your starting five, or from the bench to the role of sixth man, only if those players have not played yet.

### Scoring

The players in your fantasy team get a score based on the real statistics recorded in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season. The starting five players, the sixth man and the coach get 100% of the points, while the players on the bench get 50%.

A selected captain among the players in your starting five will have his score multiplied by 1.5x.

### Trades

Between the end of each round and the beginning of the next one, the **trade market** opens. Fantasy managers can either trade four players and retain their head coach, or they can trade three players and change their coach. Ahead of a few specific rounds, trades will be unlimited.

The dates for unlimited trades are:

1. **After Round 4**: October 19-23
2. **After Round 10**: November 16-20
3. **After Round 17**: December 21-26
4. **After Round 22**: January 18-23
5. **After Round 26**: February 8-27
6. Fantasy managers can make **unlimited alterations** to their rosters **during the postseason**, too, because the number of trades per round are unlimited during the play-in, playoff and Final Four phases.

### Tips

These are some of the most important tips:

- Edit your team every round in order to have a team of 10 players that are distributed over the different turns. Before the beginning of the round, always line up the players who take to the court in Turn 1 (T1): you can then replace them after the turn finished if you are not satisfied.
- Make sure to check the players' injury status via the injury report on [Euroleague.net](http://Euroleague.net)
- Keep an eye on the calendar for possible/potential winning streaks, as well as favorable matchups for the players on your fantasy teams.
- Don't forget about your head coach.

**Prizes**

The list of available prizes for the 2024-25 season includes tickets to games, official EuroLeague jerseys and basketballs, subscriptions to EuroLeague TV and more, highlighted by the grand prize: a VIP package for the winner and a friend to attend the 2025 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Final Four, including flights, four hotel nights and VIP tickets.

A few things to keep in mind when putting together your fantasy teams throughout the season

The Euroleague Basketball headquarters in Barcelona, Spain, was home to the first in-person session of the year for new students studying for the 2024-26 Sports Business MBA. Over the course of five days, they took part in engaging lectures featuring professors from Vytautas Magnus University and Euroleague Basketball executives.

Class commences for the 2024-26 Sports Business MBA students in Barcelona

The Euroleague Basketball headquarters in Barcelona, Spain, was home to the first in-person session of the year for new students studying for the 2024-26 Sports Business MBA. Over the course of five days, they took part in engaging lectures featuring professors from Vytautas Magnus University and Euroleague Basketball executives.

In total, 24 students from 16 different countries have officially started their 18-month journey towards attaining a Sports Business MBA, with six online modules set to take place before putting together a thesis. While in Barcelona, they heard from **16** Euroleague Basketball executives and covered an array of topics, such as governance, partnership sales and activations, event strategy and ticketing, digital and communications, sustainability, basketball operations, financial fair play, as well as business intelligence and analytics.

2024-26 Sports Business MBA first session recap video

“I’m a basketball fan and I’m always wondering how the EuroLeague operates, so this is uncovering all the secrets. I find it super interesting," said Julio Lema Iglesias from Spain.

“Coming from Toronto, Canada, I was nervous If I had made the right choice with this program, and it has been absolutely amazing. We’ve already formed a great bond with the group," commented Matthew Munro from Canada.

“The group was very diverse and I think there are great people, very open and very creative. I’m looking for finding interesting new people, connecting with, and networking!” added Julia Borowczyk from Poland.

Over the next 15 weeks, students will learn from professors at Vytautas Magnus University, along with guest academics and industry experts, as they complete three online modules and work on developing a scientific research-applied project. Afterward, they will travel to the Lithuanian city of Kaunas for the second in-person session, where they will present their project before the Term Paper Defense Committee. They will also spend two full days visiting Zalgiris Kaunas and Zalgirio Arena, gaining insights from the club and arena management.

The eighth edition of the Euroleague Basketball Institute's Sports Business MBA, delivered in collaboration with Vytautas Magnus University, Lithuania, got underway last week

EuroCup Fantasy Challenge offers weekly prizes to the top team manager, so get in the game and go for the gold!

EuroCup Fantasy Challenge: Round 2 winner

Congratulations to Eman Haskic, our second winner in the 2024-25 [EuroCup Fantasy Challenge](https://euroleaguefantasy.euroleaguebasketball.net/)! Eman's team, lindon, posted a score of 196.05.

The team featured the following lineup: Jared Harper of Hapoel Bank Yahav Jerusalem as team captain, then Tyler Ennis of Umana Reyer Venice, Devin Robinson of Cedevita Olimpija Ljubljana, Kyle Alexander of Turk Telekom Ankara and Reyer center Mfiondu Kabengele as the other starters. Kassius Robertson of Joventut Badalona was his sixth man, while Noa Essengue of ratiopharm Ulm, Vassilis Toliopoulos of Aris Midea Thessaloniki, Giga Janelidze of Reyer and Kaan Tarla of Turk Telekom made up the rest of the bench. Dejan of Bahcesehir College Istanbul was the head coach.

The prize for finishing first in Round 2 is a free subscription to Euroleague TV for the 2025-26 season!

We have a new leader in the overall standings, too, as Mali Olja's squad has a total of 375.30 points after the first two rounds. Trades are now open for Round 3. Remember, four trades are allowed before each round until the end of the regular season.

Make new teams now or improve your existing ones and try to become EuroCup Fantasy Challenge's next winner!

Be sure to take a look at the best 10 plays from Round 2 of the 2024 25 BKT EuroCup Regular Season!

Top 10 Plays | Round 2 | 2024-25 BKT EuroCup

Be sure to take a look at the best ten plays of the 2024 25 BKT EuroCup Regular Season Round 2!

Two of the most clutch players in the EuroLeague, Baskonia's Markus Howard and KK Partizan's Iffe Lundberg, will go head-to-head in Round 1 of the 2024-25 season.

Markus Howard, Iffe Lundberg ready to battle in Round 1 shootout

The opening round of the 2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season is jam-packed with must-watch games featuring a plethora of top players, but one of the most exciting matchups takes place in Vitoria-Gasteiz as Baskonia welcomes Partizan Mozzart Bet Belgrade.

Among the many stars in that clash are two of last season's most clutch players, Baskonia's [Markus Howard](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/en/euroleague/players/markus-howard/011948/) and Partizan's [Iffe Lundberg](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/iffe-lundberg/010781/).

Howard was last season's EuroLeague Alphonso Ford Top Scorer Trophy winner, an award he will receive ahead of tipoff on Thursday night, having set the all-time single-season records for points scored (759) and three-pointers made (148). Lundberg averaged 9.4 points last season but, just like Howard, he often had the ball in his hands when it mattered most.

Whether it was a shot to win the game, send it to overtime, or just scoring a tough bucket in a key situation, the two guards repeatedly stepped up in clutch situations in 2023-24. On Thursday, they will have a chance to come to the fore once again.

More Baskonia vs. Partizan News

2024-25 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague | Round 1 Head-to-Head: Howard vs. Lundberg

The two guards made several clutch, game-deciding baskets last season

Former chess star Jordan Ford impressed once again on his second EuroCup appearance as Trento beat Trefl Sopot in Round 2.

Grandmaster Jordan Ford delivered in crunch time for Trento

Having outwitted the bulk of his opponents in the ancient game of chess at a very young age, Jordan Ford went on to become just as lethal on the basketball court, serving up scintillating displays in his first two outings for Dolomiti Energia Trento in the BKT EuroCup.

Ford’s explosive debut in the competition, when he dropped 32 points on 14-of-15 shooting from the floor, went unrewarded as Trento suffered an 84-81 loss at 2023 champion Dreamland Gran Canaria in Round 1.

It looked he would be brought crashing down to earth after a subdued first half of Trento’s opening home game against Trefl Sopot, as he was held to just 2 points in the wake of aggressive half-court pressure by his markers, who stifled out the livewire guard.

However, Ford showed the makings of a champion in the second period, rekindling his childhood days when he was already a two-time California State chess champion and ranked in the top 10 nationally for his age group.

With Trento throwing away a 44-36 halftime lead and trailing 50-61 midway through the third quarter, Ford stepped up to the plate in a manner reminiscent of his more acclaimed lookalike Stephen Curry, draining one audacious three-pointer after another to turn the tide and finish on a game-high 20 points. 

Trento prevailed 84-78 and Ford, who joined the Italian team from G League outfit the Stockton Kings, which is an affiliate of the Sacramento Kings, capped his outstanding performance with a crunch defensive play with 14 seconds left on the clock, when he pickpocketed rival Jakub Schenk of the ball.

Four-time NBA champion Curry might be out of Ford’s league, but then again the Golden State Warriors guard is out of everyone’s league when it comes to playing in a backcourt.

Still, there is an uncanny resemblance to Curry in the way Ford sinks step-back three-pointers off the dribble in a defender’s face, which he did with devastating effect against Trefl when the chips were down.

In his post-game comments, the native of Citrus Heights, California, was as humble as ever. “It’s a super important win, it’s our first EuroCup win \[of the season\] and our first home game,” Ford said in a courtside interview. “It was a dogfight against a really scrappy team. Every good team is going to go on a run so it’s a good one,” he added.  

Head coach Paolo Galbiati deservedly singled out Trento’s captain Toto Forray, one of the team’s unsung heroes who left it all out there on the court when Trefl looked the more likely winner.

“It was really tough,” Galbiati said. “We stopped playing together but then Toto stepped up and showed the way to everybody, he played like a real captain. He gave the energy and everybody followed, we were able to come back in like three minutes. I expect many fans to come and watch us because we try to do our best every time.”

With Anthony Lamb delivering early on, Trento also thrived on workmanlike performances from Saliou Niang and Selom Mawuge, while Quinn Ellis chipped in with 13 points – including a crunch late triple – which gave the hosts the lead for good, 75-72.

But it was Ford who stole the show and Trento can now look forward to its Round 3 home game against Buducnost VOLI Podgorica, which should be just as enthralling as the rip-roaring matchup with Trefl.  

Once a middle school chess talent, the 26-year-old guard lit up the EuroCup’s opening two rounds with a pair of stunning displays 

Dolomiti Energia Trento v Trefl Sopot (2024-10-02T18:00:00.000Z)

Although the most exciting piece of recruitment for Valencia fans during the summer might have been the return of Pedro Martinez, the head coach was outshone by a trio of his new signings on the court during Wednesday’s 105-78 victory over Veolia Towers Hamburg.

Martinez led *Las Taronjas* to its first-ever Spanish League title in 2017 and now, returning to the club after seven years away, has been entrusted with the task of challenging for a fifth BKT EuroCup crown.

His quest has been aided by the arrival of some talented new players, who took the opportunity to shine in their home debuts on Wednesday.

First and foremost was Matt Costello, who was signed from Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz largely due to his physical ability to dominate the paint. But Costello, instead, used the win over Hamburg to showcase his long-range shooting abilities, leading all scorers with 23 points in just 14 minutes on the floor, doing the damage from deep by converting 4 of his 6 three-point attempts.

Costello was no stranger to the Fonteta floor thanks to his long spell with Baskonia, and referenced the vibrant atmosphere routinely created by Valencia fans as he joked after the game: “It was nice to have \[the fans\] cheering for me instead of against me!

“I’ve been coming here for five years and everyone was whistling me, so now it’s nice to hear them clapping!”

The fans were certainly in a celebratory mood after watching their team run riot in the final 15 minutes, turning a tight 65-63 scoreline into an eventual rout. And Costello believes the manner of performance over that final stretch should act as a template to follow over the coming weeks.

“We’re a team that likes to get out and run,” he explained. “We have a bunch of athletic guys, and Pedro’s system is to get up and down the court. Once we started getting stops, it opened up the game for us and that’s what we hope to do.”

Another impressive performance came from new backcourt orchestrator Jean Montero, who took advantage of Chris Jones’s absence through injury to lead the offense superbly.

At first, 21-year-old Montero focused on distribution as he dished 6 assists in the first quarter, including a beautiful behind the back feed to Jaime Pradilla which had the fans purring in admiration.

Montero later showed his scoring skills by advancing to 11 points, and continued to dish dimes by completing a double-double with 11 assists – the biggest contribution to an excellent overall team total of 28.

The third and final new signing to shine was Brancou Badio, who followed his coach Martinez from Manresa to Valencia this summer.

The 25-year-old guard, who made one appearance of just 22 seconds in the EuroLeague during his younger days with FC Barcelona, was a fairly quiet presence during the opening three quarters but exploded into life as Valencia ran away with the game in the fourth.

Draining a trio of three-pointers in just 46 seconds, Badio finished with 14 points on perfect 4-of-4 shooting from long-range, showing that he also has the talent to play his part.

And with Martinez back at the helm, a strong existing roster and the new signings making an instant impact, Valencia has already demonstrated that it will be tough to beat this season.

Jean Montero and Brancou Badio were also among those who impressed for the hosts

Matt Costello and fellow new faces soaking up the applause at Valencia

Valencia Basket v Veolia Towers Hamburg (2024-10-02T18:30:00.000Z)