MUNICH (Germany) - The 11th edition of the FIBA Europe Cup is upon us, with the Regular Season action set to commence in October.
Here is everything you need to know about this season's exciting competition.
What is the FIBA Europe Cup?
The FIBA Europe Cup was first introduced in 2015, with over 100 clubs from nearly 40 nations participating since the inaugural season.
There have been nine different winners in nine completed seasons, offering ambitious clubs the chance of European success.
There have been many star names competing in the FIBA Europe Cup, as well as the first glimpse at future stars at the start of their careers with the likes of Alperen Sengun and TJ Shorts having competed in recent years.
Who are the reigning champions?
Bilbao Basket became the first Spanish side to lift the coveted FIBA Europe Cup trophy as they overcame PAOK mateco in a thrilling Final. Melwin Pantzar was the star for Bilbao as he bagged MVP honors.
No team has won the competition on more than one occasion, with the nine winners consisting of two German clubs, two Italian sides and one each from Türkiye, France, Israel, Poland and Spain.
However, this season, Bilbao Basket will aim to become the first side to retain its title.
Who is playing?
40 clubs will compete in the Regular Season, with 14 clubs gaining direct entry based on the Club and Country domestic rankings. A further 16 teams joined via the Basketball Champions League Qualifiers after failing to make the Regular Season.
The final 10 spots came from the FIBA Europe Cup Qualifiers, including three lucky losers - the additional spots opened up following teams that had opted-in advancing to the BCL Regular Season.
The Regular Season groups are as follows:
Who are the debutants?
PUMPA Basket Brno, RASTA, CSM Corona Brasov, Absheron Lions and BC Bashkimi all made it out of the Qualifiers to book their maiden Regular Season spots.
Meanwhile, UCAM Murcia become the third Spanish team to play in the competition, with Pelister Bitola of North Macedonia; Start Lublin of Poland; Turkish side Aliaga Petkimspor; CS Valcea 1924 of Romania; Croatia's Cedevita Junior and Neftchi IK of Azerbaijan also making their first appearances in the competition.
When do the games take place?
Games are played midweek, typically on Tuesday and Wednesday, throughout the season. The Regular Season begins in October, while the Finals, played over two legs, take place in April.
The full schedule can be found, here.
How can I follow the action?
Fans will be able to watch all the games via the official website, with select games streamed live and free on the FIBA YouTube channel.
Don't forget also to follow FIBA Europe Cup on X and Instagram to stay up to date and join in on the action using #FIBAEuropeCup.
FIBA