By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Real Madrid and the global basketball community are mourning the loss of Vicente Paniagua, who passed away at the age of 78.
Between 1966 and 1977, Paniagua was a central figure in a squad that redefined European dominance. Throughout his 11 seasons in the legendary white jersey, he amassed an extraordinary collection of 21 major trophies. His continental success included winning the FIBA European Champions Cup, now the EuroLeague, in 1967, 1968, and 1974, as well as the Intercontinental Cup in 1976. Domestically, he won the Spanish League title for ten consecutive seasons from 1968 through 1977, and hoisted the Copa del Rey in 1967, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, and 1975. Beyond the court, he served as a commentator on Real Madrid TV.
Per the press release: “Real Madrid C. F., its president, and its Board of Directors deeply regret the passing of Vicente Paniagua, one of the great legends of Real Madrid and European basketball.
Comunicado Oficial: fallecimiento de Vicente Paniagua.
— Real Madrid Basket (@RMBaloncesto) March 7, 2026
Real Madrid wishes to express its condolences and affection to his family, his teammates, and all his loved ones.
Vicente Paniagua wore the Real Madrid jersey for 11 seasons, from 1966 to 1977. During this time, he won 21 titles: 3 European Cups, 1 Intercontinental Cup, 10 Leagues, and 7 Spanish Cups. He was also an international player with Spain.
In recent years, he was connected to Real Madrid as a commentator for our basketball team’s games on Realmadrid TV.
Vicente Paniagua has passed away at the age of 78. Real Madrid extends its condolences to all madridismo. Rest in peace.”