MUNICH (Germany) - There are 12 teams still standing heading into the EuroLeague Women Second Round as we look forward to the race to make the Final Six intensifying and throwing up more blockbuster games and box-office moments.
There's been so much to love about the campaign so far, but the only guarantee is that there will be many more twists and turns during this next phase.
The big question remains - who's getting it done and heading towards the end of season showpiece?
Group E
Galatsaray Cagdas Faktoring fans are dreaming of another title as one of just two unbeaten teams. Spar Girona have been on fire to prove the pre-season doubters wrong, while Beretta Famila Schio and Tango Bourges Basket could be hitting a higher gear at just the right time.
With holders ZVVZ USK Praha struggling for consistency and Flammes Carolo Basket a surprise package, Group E has a strongly unpredictable and exciting feel to it.
The favorites: Galatasaray have their destiny firmly in their own hands. It would be a huge shock if they didn't take a direct ticket to Final Six. Their ability to win close games has been a big positive and they are just so physically powerful inside the paint with the rotation of Dorkja Juhasz, Awak Kuier and Elizabeth Williams. The underdogs: Flammes Basket Carolo have had some wonderful moments and it could have been even better had they not lost three nail-biters. So, while a 2-4 record re-enforces an underdog label, opposing teams will know they're a very dangerous outfit with Noemie Brochant, Elizabeth Dixon and Isabelle Strunc having all excelled.
Key matchup: It feels like Girona and Schio are primed to challenge for second spot and a direct ticket to the Final Six. Both have experienced playcallers in Roberto Iniguez and Victor Lapena - as well as many star ballers. Facing each other in this next game, a victory would be absolutely huge for whoever comes out on top.
The star: Marine Johannes epitomizes star power. Having eased herself into the Galatasaray setup with a first appearance on Gameday 6, everyone's holding their breath for what comes next. Her renowned talent, capacity to entertain and deliver in the clutch adds a new dimension to the already high-performing Group E leaders.
The rising star: Juste Jocyte has been excellent for the 5-1 Girona. While calling the Lithuanian a rising star is stretching credibility since she's a lot more than that, it's important not to lose sight that she's still only 20 years-old. Her near 28 minutes per game speaks volumes, as does more than 14 points and 4 assists per outing. The X-factor: Do reigning champions Praha hold the key to the entire balance of Group E? While 3-3, if they find a higher gear and greater consistency, they could rapidly come up on the rails and become a contender again. However, if they keep laboring like in the First Round, then opportunity knocks for others to take advantage.
Group F
A perfect 6-0 Fenerbahce Opet want to continue their march towards this season's title, while Basket Landes continue to amaze by punching above their weight. Umana Reyer Venezia are rock solid and a tough side to break down, while Valencia Basket Club remain are eyeing up a repeat of last season's deep run.
Casademont Zaragoza are riding a high after making it to the Second Round, while DVTK HUNTHERM are looking to cause some upsets.
The favorites: Aside from one game in Valencia, Fenerbahce have barely had a glove laid on them. To avoid any complacency, they've added superstar Gabby Williams to the roster which is a big statement. Both Julie Allemand and Iliana Rupert have been electric, and with Emma Meesseman no doubt ready to rise up, they look unstoppable. The underdogs: DVTK are probably heading into the Second Round with mixed feelings. Pride they have reached this phase, but knowing their hopes of making the Final Six are hanging by the finest of threads with a 1-5 record. Even if winning another game could be a challenge, they could still wreck someone else's dreams on any given night.
Key matchup: The games between Zaragoza and Valencia were incredible last year and even neutral fans will relish watching both Spanish clubs meeting again. There will be two amazing atmospheres and the basketball will be beautifully intense. Valencia might be favorites but Zaragoza might just love spoiling the party for their rivals.
The star: Scan the Fenerbahce roster and take your pick. While Emma Meesseman is gunning for a third MVP honor in a row, it could be Gabby Williams this season that steps in and propels the Istanbul club to silverware. Her skill, intensity and defensive prowess could be the deal-breaker that makes sure there's no realistic chance of a slip-up.
The rising star: Spanish teenager Awa Fam is continuing to progress impressively with Valencia. She's continued the momentum from a superb FIBA Women's EuroBasket 2025 with 20 minutes per game and some strong moments. While still looking for even greater consistency, she's a huge talent and fans are enjoying her evolution. The X-factor: Zaragoza and particularly their amazing home support makes Pabellon Principe Felipe a special place. The way they blew away Mersin on Gameday 6 to advance, showed their capacity to make positive waves. If they keep playing to their full potential, they could be the main architects of some epic and dramatic nights.
FIBA