In the midst of the desert, where temperatures soared to an impressive 51°C in the shade, a remarkable EuroLeague Final Four took place. Abu Dhabi, a city with no prior basketball heritage, transformed into the hub of European basketball for four thrilling days. Fenerbahçe proudly claimed its second European championship, overcoming a determined Monaco team in a hard-fought final. Though Monaco put up a fierce battle, they ultimately couldn’t secure the upset.
Fenerbahçe Claims the Title
Jasikevicius’s team demonstrated better discipline, made wise choices during crucial moments, and boasted a deeper roster. Monaco, despite their talent and determination, depleted their energy and focus when it counted most. While the game may have lacked glamour, it was filled with intensity and the essence of basketball.
Olympiacos Defeats Panathinaikos in Greek Clash
In the third-place match, Olympiacos bounced back from semifinal heartbreak by defeating archrivals Panathinaikos in a contest brimming with competitiveness, pride, and the spirit of a Greek derby, even without a title on the line.
Olympiacos played with sharper focus and intensity, determined to end their European journey on a high note. Meanwhile, Panathinaikos, the reigning EuroLeague champions, faced disappointment in a season intended to mirror their Berlin triumph.
Nonetheless, the emergence of younger talents, particularly Samonturov, provided a sense of hope for the future. This game was less about tactical prowess and more about resilience.
Etihad Arena: A Vibrant Atmosphere
The crowd atmosphere was unforgettable. Local Emirati fans, unfamiliar with the vibrant culture of European basketball, were taken aback. Despite the lack of drums or flags, fans from Greece and Turkey transformed the Etihad Arena into a buzzing hive of energy.
The roars, passion, and genuine emotion filled the arena. Local authorities, caught off guard, had to deploy special police forces to manage tensions. There was even an incident where Greek and Turkish fans clashed over Vassilis Spanoulis.
Spanoulis: A Timeless Icon
Olympiacos fans’ admiration for “Kill Bill” Spanoulis transcended rivalries. Despite coaching Monaco and eliminating Olympiacos, the Piraeus supporters continued to chant his name and show solidarity during a challenging moment for him.
However, tensions escalated when some Fenerbahçe fans provoked them. Minor altercations occurred, prompting police intervention. Fortunately, the situation de-escalated without major incidents.
A Seamless Tournament in a Hot City
Despite the oppressive heat and limited promotion—no signs at the airport or around the city—the tournament was executed flawlessly. Etihad Arena stood as a model of modernity, accessibility, and organization. Abu Dhabi, with its cultural contrasts and minimal basketball following, proved its capability to host such a significant event.
The real champions were the thousands of Turkish and Greek fans who made their way at personal cost to support their teams. Locals, witnessing this spectacle for the first time, observed in amazement.
As one taxi driver humorously remarked, “I only realized something huge was happening when I heard thousands cheering inside that arena.”
The Future for Olympiacos and Panathinaikos
The Final Four concluded with deep reflection for both Greek titans. Olympiacos fell short of the championship once more, while Panathinaikos couldn’t defend its title. Both teams now enter a phase of rebuilding—with the Greek league still undecided and an eventful summer ahead.
Names like T.J. Shorts, Tyson Ward, and Vasilije Micić are already on the radar. Scouting departments are working tirelessly, and the competition for supremacy is heating up.
Though the European journey ended in the desert, the flames of Greek basketball have only just begun to burn bright.
Ask me anything
Explore related questions
