2023-10-04 13:49:55
EuroLeague 2023/24 Season Preview: Power Rankings for Lower Part Groups
With the highly anticipated 2023/24 season of the EuroLeague set to kick off tomorrow, fans are eager to see how the new season will unfold after an eventful summer. This summer saw significant player transfers between factory teams, as well as the arrival of several NBA players in the league. Ahead of the new season, let’s take a look at the power rankings for the lower part groups of the factory teams.
18. Alba Berlin
Position last season: 16th
Alba Berlin seems to be in familiar territory this season as they lost several key players in the offseason. Jaylen Smith moved to Virtus Bologna, Luke Sikma joined Olympiakos, and Maudo Lo joined Milan. However, the team did acquire Sterling Brown, adding some interest to the roster. Alba Berlin is not expected to make the playoffs this season, but they will rely on their young talents such as Matteo Spagnolo, Gabriel Procida, Luis Olinda, and Ziga Summer to develop in the EuroLeague.
17. Villeurbanne
Position last season: 18th
Villeurbanne, the French team, has struggled in the past two seasons, and it doesn’t look like that will change this year. With the additions of Nando De Colo, Ferris Lee, and Frank Jackson, Villeurbanne hopes to improve their performance. They also have Israeli player John Agbono and Noam Yaakov on their roster. While it may be difficult for Villeurbanne to compete with stronger teams, they are known for giving young players opportunities.
16. Valencia
Position last season: 13th
Valencia underwent several changes in the offseason, especially in the frontcourt. Brandon Davies replaced Boyan Dubljevic at center, and the team hopes to see positive performances from him, Sammy Ogilvy, and Chris Jones. If these players can have successful seasons, Valencia could present a challenge to their opponents. However, it will be tough for the team to make the playoffs with strong competition. Nonetheless, being the Eurocup champions, they earned their spot in the EuroLeague this season.
15. Virtus Bologna
Position last season: 14th
Expectations were high for Virtus Bologna last season, but they failed to live up to them. The team had a tumultuous summer, including the recent dismissal of coach Sergio Scariolo. Luka Banki, who led Latvia to success in the Mundobasket, was chosen as his replacement. Virtus Bologna will rely on new additions Jaylen Smith and Ognjen Dubric to fill the gaps left by departing players. Overall, Virtus Bologna is expected to be mediocre once again and securing a spot in the play-in tournament would be a pleasant surprise.
14. Zalgiris
Position last season: 7th
The Lithuanian team, Zalgiris, has been unpredictable in recent years, but they have consistently performed well enough. This season, they welcome back Keenan Evans, who showed promise last year in the half-season he played. Zalgiris will also rely on Brady Heslip, Rolands Smits, and Augustine Rubit for their scoring contributions. Despite their underdog status, Zalgiris has the potential to surprise and make a competitive run for the playoffs.
13. Bayern Munich
Position last season: 15th
After a disappointing season, Bayern Munich decided to replace coach Andrea Trinchieri with Pablo Lasso. The team made significant signings, including veteran Serge Ibaka, who aims to revive his career in European basketball. Carsen Edwards, Devin Booker, and Andy Obst are expected to contribute in the backcourt. With the addition of Isaac Bonga and Vladimir Lucic, Bayern Munich has improved its roster, but it remains a challenge for them to reach the playoffs this season.
12. Basconia
Position last season: 9th
Basconia narrowly missed out on the playoffs last season, but they faced some challenges in the summer with the departure of key players Darius Thompson and Rokas Giedraitis. However, the team made strategic signings in Cody Miller-McIntyre and Cima Moncada, who fit well with Basconia’s play style. Marcus Howard will also play a crucial role in their backcourt. With this exciting trio, Basconia has the potential to secure impressive victories throughout the season.
As the EuroLeague 2023/24 season gets underway, fans eagerly await to see how these lower-ranked factory teams will perform. With new additions and changes to their rosters, these teams will aim to exceed expectations and make a strong impact on the league this season.
#surprise #Part #power #rating #Euroleague