A year of change and intense competition!
The 2024-2025 Liga Endesa (also known as the ACB) is back, kicking off with an electrifying Supercopa that saw Unicaja deliver an early upset, defeating powerhouse Real Madrid by 10 points. As the season unfolds, it’s clear that this year’s Spanish basketball league is shaping up to be one of the most competitive yet.
A NEW LANDSCAPE IN THE EUROLEAGUE
This season brings a significant shift in the Euroleague representation from Spain. While Real Madrid, Barça, and Baskonia remain as the only three Spanish teams in the competition, France’s growing basketball influence has seen them gain an additional spot with Paris Basketball joining the elite ranks. With fewer teams from Spain in the Euroleague, the battle for domestic supremacy in Liga Endesa will be more intense than ever.
CHAMPIONS IN TRANSITION AND CONTENDERS TO WATCH
Reigning ACB champions Real Madrid are entering a transitional phase. The departures of veteran stars Rudy Fernández and Sergio Rodríguez to retirement, alongside Guerschon Yabusele’s move to the Philadelphia 76ers, have left noticeable gaps in their lineup. However, Madrid has reinforced its squad with big names like Serge Ibaka (from Bayern Munich) and Usman Garuba (G-League's Santa Cruz Warriors), ensuring they remain among the favorites to retain the title.
Real Madrid may have a target on their back, but both FC Barcelona and Baskonia have made strategic moves to close the gap.
FC Barcelona: With a fresh coaching start under Joan Peñarroya, Barcelona has bolstered its roster with some significant signings. Among them are the towering Moustapha Fall (ASVEL), Kevin Punter (Partizan), and Chimezie Metu (Detroit Pistons). After a mixed season last year, this revamped Barça squad is ready to challenge for the top spot.
Baskonia: Returning to the sidelines for Baskonia is the legendary Pablo Laso, a coach who already has a deep history with the ACB. He’s brought in notable talents like Alen Smailagic (Partizan), Derrick Williams (Hawks), John Brown (Monaco), and Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot (ASVEL). Expect Baskonia to push for a spot in the final stages of the playoffs.
Barcelona and Baskonia have made strategic moves to close the gap with top-tier Real Madrid
The promoted teams
PROVING THEIR PLACE
This season also welcomes two new teams to the top flight: Lleida and La Coruña. Both will need to prove they belong in the ACB, facing stiff competition from the more established clubs. The road to survival will be tough, but surprises are always around the corner in Spanish basketball.
The Playoff Race
With the top three powerhouses—Real Madrid, FC Barcelona, and Baskonia—expected to dominate and secure their playoff berths, the battle for the remaining five spots promises to be one of the most thrilling and unpredictable aspects of the 2024-2025 Liga Endesa season. Seven ambitious teams are gearing up for a fierce fight, knowing that every single game will be crucial in their quest to extend their seasons and stake their claim for a shot at the championship.
Valencia Basket: Known for their consistent performances in recent years, Valencia will once again look to cement their place among the ACB elite. With a well-rounded roster and a strong home-court presence, they are poised to be a serious contender in this playoff race.
Baxi Manresa: Always punching above their weight, Manresa has built a reputation as a team that can surprise on any given night. They’ll rely on key players like Retin Obasohan to push them into the playoffs, but consistency will be crucial for them to break through in such a competitive field.
Gran Canaria: After a solid campaign last year, Gran Canaria enters this season with high hopes of making the playoffs once again. Their balanced roster, which includes both seasoned veterans and exciting young talent, will be key as they aim to navigate the challenges of the regular season.
Joventut Badalona: A historic club in Spanish basketball, Badalona will be eager to make their mark this season. With the talent of players like Kaye Van Der Vuurst and a passionate fan base behind them, they’ll look to claw their way into the playoff picture.
Unicaja Málaga: After their stunning Supercopa victory over Real Madrid, Unicaja has already shown they can go toe-to-toe with the biggest teams in the league. With momentum on their side, they’ll aim to build on this early success and secure a playoff berth.
MoraBanc Andorra: After re-establishing themselves in the ACB following a one-season stint in the LEB Oro, Andorra is ready to make a serious push for the playoffs. They’ve spent the offseason strengthening their squad, aiming to prove they’re not just back to stay, but to compete at the highest level. With the high altitude of their home court being a unique advantage, Andorra will look to capitalize on every opportunity to climb up the standings.
A Season of Color and Drama on Spanish Courts
With so many exciting storylines, top-tier talent, and the ever-present drama of Spanish basketball, the 2024-2025 Liga Endesa season promises to be an unforgettable one. Whether it's Real Madrid's bid to defend their title, Barça and Baskonia’s strengthened squads, or the fierce battle for the playoff spots, there’s no shortage of action to look forward to this year.
Stay tuned, because this ACB season is set to deliver non-stop excitement on and off the court!
