A milestone celebration
Real Madrid's tenth Basketball European Cup marks eight years since the club first lifted the trophy, a milestone that underscores the club's sustained excellence in European competition.
Under the guidance of head coach Pablo Laso, the squad navigated a season riddled with injuries, yet managed to rally around a core of talented players and secure a second European crown within four seasons.
The championship game, held in Belgrade, saw the Spanish side edge out Fenerbahçe 85‑80 in a tightly contested final. A late surge, sparked by a clutch basket from Justin Thompkins after an offensive rebound and two free throws by Nicolas Causeur, sealed the victory with just 22 seconds left on the clock.
Luka Dončić was instrumental throughout the tournament, finishing as the top scorer for Madrid with 17 points in the final and earning the MVP award for the Final Four. His all‑around performance also earned him the distinction of being named the best player of the EuroLeague.
The road to the title included a hard‑fought semifinal victory over CSKA Moscow, a team that had dominated the regular league stage. Despite the Russian side's regular‑season supremacy, Madrid's resilience shone through, culminating in a decisive final minute that proved pivotal.
Legacy and future
The triumph not only adds to Real Madrid's storied basketball legacy but also reinforces the club's ability to thrive under pressure. With a blend of seasoned leadership and emerging talent, the team looks poised to remain a dominant force in upcoming European competitions.