ATHENS (Greece) - It's going to have to be something sensational to trump a famous and unforgettable night in the British capital when Holly Winterburn inspired London Lions to a historic EuroCup Women title.
It was just two years ago when the guard signed off the season clutching silverware, and now she's one step away from collecting a second winners' medal.
I can’t really put into words how special winning the EuroCup Women title with London was - Winterburn
Preparing to step into the EuroCup Women Finals with Athinaikos Qualco, the Greek side are gearing up to face CIMSA CBK Mersin in a battle to take the 2026 crown.
And, with silverware on the line once again, the chance to repeat her success of being crowned champion in 2024 is an alluring one for Winterburn.
She explained: "I can’t really put into words how special winning the EuroCup Women title with London was.
"We went through so much as a group, from losing the EuroLeague Women Qualifiers at the start of that season, to getting told the women’s team would no longer exist after the season ended.
"Yet every hit we took just made us stronger and to win the way we did, in a sold out Copper Box Arena full of the British Basketball community, will forever make me emotional."
"The experience taught me exactly what it takes to win titles and that’s something I try to live by everyday."
It's not only Winterburn looking to complete a London-Athinaikos double. The 25-year-old has been reunited with Greek playcaller Stella Kaltsidou, who was at the helm of the Lions during their glorious run.
"I think it’s quite remarkable what Stella has been able to do so early in her coaching career," claimed Winterburn.
"To win a EuroCup Women title in her first year as a head coach and to now be on the verge of another so quickly afterwards, speaks for itself really."
"I feel very grateful to have been able to learn from her. I have no doubt that she is going to have us 100 percent prepared for the Finals against Mersin."
While the journey with Kaltsidou has given this season's ride a familiar feel in some ways, Winterburn was quick to point out that the stakes have been even higher this time around.
She explained: "I think that whilst I take experience from the title with London, this time around is different. I think in general, EuroCup Women has been very competitive this season and both teams arrive to the Finals battle tested.
"It’s no secret that the goal for Athinaikos this season is to win every title possible. With that comes pressure, but it’s a privilege to be on a team with such high expectations.
"We have been building for this moment since day one and we are fully focused on achieving our goals," insisted Winterburn.
Leading her team in assists and averaging 27 minutes per game, the Brit continues to be a major influence in their charge towards the top podium step this season.
However, Winterburn was also quick to point out just how much of a challenge it will be to overcome their opponents - a team yet to lose in the competition. But, she is ready to thrive in the task of trying to change that fact.
She said: "Mersin is another club who have high expectations when it comes to winning titles. Like ours, their roster has talent, depth and experience.
"I’m expecting very high level, competitive games. It will be important for us to execute our game plan and be focused from the first to the last minute.
"It’s going to be a fun and exciting Finals series," concluded Winterburn.
The first leg takes place on April 2 in Greece, with the return leg a week later in Mersin.
FIBA