By Alex Molina / info@eurohoops.net
The wait is almost over. The 2026-27 EuroLeague season tips off next Thursday with 20 teams beginning a new race for European basketball’s biggest prize.
One of the biggest stories will take place in Athens, where Željko Obradović returns to Panathinaikos. The Serbian coach, who led the club between 1999 and 2012, returns more than a decade after leaving, having previously guided the Greens to five EuroLeague titles.
In Lithuania, Jonas Valančiūnas represents one of the most notable arrivals of the summer. After 14 seasons in the NBA, the Lithuanian center returns to Europe to join Žalgiris Kaunas on a two-year deal. H
Turkey has also seen one of the summer’s biggest moves. Shane Larkin has left Anadolu Efes for Fenerbahçe, signing a two-year contract. After eight seasons with Efes and two EuroLeague titles, the American-born Turkish international will now play for one of his former club’s biggest domestic rivals.
Another major storyline will be the return of Beşiktaş to the EuroLeague. The Istanbul club replaces AS Monaco in the competition and will play its first game against Valencia Basket on September 25.
In Madrid, a new chapter begins under Pedro Martínez. The veteran Spanish coach takes charge of a revamped Real Madrid side, combining experienced stars with new additions. Madrid have already made a strong start to the season by winning the inaugural EuroLeague Super Cup in Abu Dhabi, beating Olympiacos in the final. Their first regular-season game will come against Dubai Basketball, a team that also has the biggest ambitions under Xavi Pacual’s guidance.
And then there is Olympiacos, the reigning European champion. The Greek side enters the season determined to defend its crown, with Dominican guard Jean Montero as one of its most exciting additions. The 23-year-old signed a three-year contract after an outstanding season with Valencia, during which he averaged 14.4 points and 4.8 assists in the EuroLeague.
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