By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Basketball Champions League ecosystem experienced a major shakeup on Thursday afternoon as clubs across the continent aggressively fortified their rosters for the upcoming 2026–27 campaign.
Azerbaijan champions Sabah highlighted the movement by securing the services of 27-year-old point guard Mike Ertel on a two-year contract. Bringing extensive international pedigree from prior stints in Finland, France, Poland, and China, the veteran playmaker will link up with Quincy Ballard, Charles Manning Jr., Evan Bruinsma, Mindaugas Susinskas, Frankie Fidler, and Nick Perkins. His first European club continental assignment will be a trial by fire in a strong Regular Season Group A, where Sabah is slated to battle Nanterre 92, Trabzonspor, and defending titleholders Rytas.
Meanwhile, Slavia Prague ERA NBK strengthened their frontline by acquiring 29-year-old forward Pauly Paulicap. Bound for Group G alongside powerhouse opponents ALBA Berlin, Igokea m:tel, and Surne Bilbao, the New York native carries a recent four-game BCL spell with Promitheas Vikos Cola. Head coach Oren Amiel will integrate the newcomer into a deeply established rotation that includes Jaromir Bohacik, David Bohm, Arsen Gevorkyan, Travis Harper II, Vojtech Hruban, Sebastian Kremen, Martin Kriz, Javian McCollum, Radovan Mrazek, Nana Owusu-Anane, Ondrej Pospichal, Frantisek Rylich, Patrick Samoura, Thomas Stanko, and Ronaldo Segu.
Group D contenders Peristeri Betsson focused on long-term development by announcing a three-year deal with 20-year-old prospect Christos Gavriilidis, who will spend the next season on a loan assignment with Greek lower-tier outfit Psychiko to log developmental minutes. Finally, ahead of their Qualification Rounds bid in Samokov, Glint Korfez injected youth into their lineup by adding 21-year-old Altan Camoglu.
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