The most disappointing clubs of the Champions League
Basketball Champions League regular phase finished last week with 16 teams advancing to the next stage, while the other 16 went home. Some of the participating squads had no chance to reach out from the group for many reasons, like very tough opponents, too many injuries or covid cases, which was the case of Fortitudo Bologna of Bilbao Basket that couldn’t show their full potential this time. They won’t be on my list of the disappointing teams regarding the circumstances.
And I don’t consider a deception the campaign of some teams that have tried their best with a small budget and average rosters like Keravnos or Lublin. But there are some clubs that were considered title contenders and they were simply pathetic. Here is my list:
Rytas
The Lithuanian squad was seen as a great team this season and then collapsed in front of the underdog teams, like VEF RIGA. Their game was selfish and full of mistakes.
Galatasaray
The Turkish team that previously was a powerhouse, participating in Eurocup and Euroleague, had an embarrassing season in Basketball Champions League.
Darussafaka
Another former glory of the Turkish basketball, a former winner of the Eurocup and a Euroleague participant finished with only 1 victory the group stage.
Peristeri
The Greek squad having so talented guys in the roster was a big fail. They made some changes the roster, but finally, they lost the opportunity to qualify from an average group.
Hapoel Jerusalem
Another big blow this season. A team that could aim for the title, leaving on the back door the European competition, while Igokea qualified in their place.
I think all these teams have something in common: a lot of American mercenaries that are playing very selfish and chaotic. Lack of discipline never won games!
Image: Basketball Champions League
Gratian Cormos is a life coach, book writer and mentor living in the city of Barcelona, Spain.
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