By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
Since the formation of the Basketball Champions League, plenty of changes have been made, improving the product, from formats to clubs and players growing in a competitive field. A long journey getting even more exciting every single season. This season continues the upward trend as the Final Four inches closer.
Among the constants, six teams have been present in all seven editions of FIBA’s continental competition. Three of the lasting BCL originals, defending champion Lenovo Tenerife plus AEK and SIG Strasbourg made it to the Quarterfinals of the 2022-23 season. A reunion bringing back memories and also the next checkpoint in the hunt for European glory.
Eurohoops surveys all six lasting originals, ups and downs, and overall progress through the Champions League.
AEK
The Queen’s rich history at the continental and domestic levels has been a huge boost to the BCL since the first season. Supporters combined with the club’s know-how have been instrumental in successfully hosting the 2018 Final Four and 2020 Final Eight, possibly extending to the next Final Four as well.
Looking specifically at club growth, not necessarily unattached to organizing perks, AEK working through the seven Champions League seasons has enjoyed better finishes in the Greek league and added two Cups to the long list of titles in team history.
The Athens outfit reached the BCL Quarterfinals for the fourth time, after falling short in the last two seasons. The biggest highlight was going all the way to the top in 2018 and from there winning the 2019 FIBA Intercontinental Cup.
Basketball Champions League campaigns
| 2016-17 | Round of 16 |
| 2017-18 | Winner |
| 2018-19 | Quarterfinals |
| 2019-20 | 2nd |
| 2020-21 | Round of 16 |
| 2021-22 | Regular Season |
| 2022-23 | Clinched a berth in Quarterfinals |