The first round of the EuroLeague wraps up today (9/25), with three intriguing matchups following yesterday’s packed schedule.
Beşiktaş vs. Valencia
ΣΧΕΤΙΚΑ ΑΡΘΡΑ
In the first game of the night (8:00 p.m.), Besiktas hosts Valencia in a historic match for the home team, as they return to the top competition after a 13-year absence, taking advantage of Bourges’ refusal to participate following their EuroCup victory. A team with a deep roster and high ambitions, shaped by Alibegović’s vision, who is in the fortunate position of having all his players available. On the other hand, Valencia is coming off a summer of many changes. The most significant loss is that of their head coach, Pedro Martínez, with Xavi Albert stepping in to continue the great work with the “Bats.” At the same time, many players have left, with the departures of Montero and Badiño sealing the turn of an era. Nevertheless, the return of T.J. Shorts and the addition of Mirotić bring a sense of optimism to a team that has been underestimated. Against Besiktas, however, Sima, Korbalan, and Mari were sidelined, while Mirotić, Rivero, and Sako remain questionable.
Fenerbahçe vs. Virtus Bologna
A little later, at 8:45 p.m., another game will take place on Turkish soil, this one between Fenerbahçe and Virtus Bologna. Sarunas Jasikevicius’s team has made several changes, but it remains a squad that will fight until the very end for a spot in the Final Four. The most significant signing of the summer was Larkin, who left fellow Istanbul club Efes to make a strong bid for another EuroLeague title. At the same time, despite Biberoivic’s departure, the additions of Shields, Ki, and Forrest will provide depth, while the first message was sent in the Super Cup match against Besiktas, with the “Canaries” easily claiming their first title of the season. Facing them is a team that is considered an underdog and, by all accounts, will be treading water again this year. The Bolognese finished last season with a 14-24 record and in 17th place, and despite the fact that they’ve added youth and athleticism to the roster this year, they lack experience, which, combined with the departure of their star player, Carsen Edwards, leaves them ranked low. As for today’s game, Larkin is questionable for Fenerbahce, while Kokila will not play for Virtus.
Partizan vs. Armani Milan
In their most recent matchup, Partizan and Armani Milan will face off in Belgrade. The Serbs are looking to put a poor season behind them, one marked by a 16-22 record. In their friendly match against PAOK, they showed noticeable weaknesses, and, by all accounts, this will be a transitional season for them, with Joan Peñarroya tasked with getting the team back on track. On the other hand, the Milanese have made several changes, as is their custom, but they appear to be starting off on a better footing than last season. Partizan will be without Loverne, Mainkovic, and Parker, while the visitors will be missing Mathias. Otherwise, we expect a closely contested match.
Here are the results from Matchday 1 in detail:
*photo source: KYPE
