Juancho Hernangomez, also known for his role as Bo Cruz in the movie "Hustle", has returned to Europe by signing with Panathinaikos Athens on a deal through the end of the 2024-25 season. Hernangomez (2.06 meters, 27 years old) has played in the NBA ever since being selected with the 15th pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. Having never played in the EuroLeague before, he will make his competition debut with the Greens this season.

Juancho 'Bo Cruz' Hernangomez joins Panathinaikos Athens

Juancho Hernangomez, also known for his role as Bo Cruz in the movie "Hustle", has returned to Europe by signing with Panathinaikos Athens on a deal through the end of the 2024-25 season. Hernangomez (2.06 meters, 27 years old) has played in the NBA ever since being selected with the 15th pick in the 2016 NBA Draft. The Spaniard is coming off a season with the Toronto Raptors in which he averaged 2.9 points and 2.9 rebounds in 14.6 minutes across 42 appearances. Having never played in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague before, he will make his competition debut with the Greens this season.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="en" dir="ltr">Hey Greens, how about some <a href="https://twitter.com/juanchiviris41?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@juanchiviris41</a> energy? 🔋<br><br>New member on our family ☘️<br><br>Read more 👉🏼 <a href="https://t.co/gu0kdtwZHs">https://t.co/gu0kdtwZHs</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeTheGreens?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeTheGreens</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/paobc?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#paobc</a> <a href="https://t.co/2OLJLSgNFw">pic.twitter.com/2OLJLSgNFw</a></p>&mdash; Panathinaikos BC (@paobcgr) <a href="https://twitter.com/paobcgr/status/1684468760822923265?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 27, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### Juancho Hernangomez's journey to Athens

A regular member of the Spanish national team, Juancho is the younger of the two Hernangomez brothers; his brother, Willy, 29, joined FC Barcelona earlier this summer. Juancho started his career with Estudiantes in his hometown of Madrid before his NBA career got underway. Hernangomez was drafted by the Denver Nuggets ahead of the 2016-17 season and then remained with the team until February 2020, when he was traded to the Minnesota Timberwolves. The forward went on to have the best period in his NBA career, averaging 12.9 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists and 1.0 steals across 14 games in the 2019-20 season, which led to him re-signing with Minnesota on a three-year deal in November 2020. 

The following August, Hernangomez was traded to the Memphis Grizzlies and then one month later to the Boston Celtics. He remained with Boston until January 2022, when he was once again involved in a trade, this time to the San Antonio Spurs. But, he was traded again one month later, as he saw out the season with the Utah Jazz. Last summer, Hernangomez joined Toronto on a one-year contract. Now, seven years after leaving Europe, Hernangomez is coming back to play for Panathinaikos. 

### A European and world champion

Hernangomez helped Spain win a bronze medal at the 2013 U18 European Championship and then a silver at both the 2014 and 2015 U20 European Championships. As a member of the senior national team, he has been a member of some teams that will never be forgotten. After winning a bronze medal at EuroBasket 2017, Hernangomez came away with a gold medal at the 2019 FIBA Basketball World Cup and then EuroBasket 2022.  Hernangomez scored 27 points in last summer's EuroBasket championship game as Spain defeated France 88-76. 

More Panathinaikos News

Juancho Hernangomez, Panathinaikos Athens's new signing, celebrates a made three-pointer in a game for the Spanish national team.

Juancho 'Bo Cruz' Hernangomez signs with Panathinaikos

FC Bayern Munich played the role of protagonist in the EuroLeague summer market last week, bringing in four new players. Bayern focused on getting young talents who are ready to grow under head coach Pablo Laso's guidance, with the club signing three new guards who matched that profile: Carsen Edwards, Leandro Bolmaro and Sylvain Francisco.

Bayern Munich fills its backcourt with endless combinations

FC Bayern Munich played the role of protagonist in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague summer market last week, bringing in four new players. One of them, center [Devin Booker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/news/devin-booker-returns-to-bayern-munich/), is back in Munich and knows everything about the club and the city. Elsewhere, Bayern focused on getting young talents who are ready to grow under head coach [Pablo Laso](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/news/pablo-laso-a-two-time-euroleague-champ-becomes-bayern-head-coach/)'s guidance, with the club signing three new guards who matched that profile: [Carsen Edwards](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/news/bayern-munich-lands-point-guard-carsen-edwards/), [Leandro Bolmaro](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/news/leandro-bolmaro-completes-move-to-bayern/) and [Sylvain Francisco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/news/bayern-munich-adds-france-international-sylvain-francisco/).

They join a backcourt that already featured Nick Weiler-Babb, Andreas Obst and Isaac Bonga. All six players are less than 28 years old; Weiler-Babb at 27 is the oldest of the group. Coach Laso likes high-tempo basketball and with so many fresh legs in Bayern's backcourt, the German side's fast pace should make it one of the go-to teams to watch on EuroLeague TV next season.

### Last year's survivors

The best thing about it is that all six players are very different from each other. Bayern already had a do-it-all playmaker with strong defensive skills in Weiler-Babb, a tall ballhandler with great passing skills in Bonga, and a three-point specialist in Obst. Particularly in the case of Obst, he could play a similar role for Laso like Jaycee Carroll did at Real Madrid: coming off the bench as the team's first option to score the basketball as much as possible. This summer, it was important for Bayern to diversify its backcourt – and it did just that.

Isaac Bonga made his Turkish Airlines EuroLeague debut with FC Bayern Munich in the 2022-23 season.

Isaac Bonga: 2022-23 EuroLeague highlights

### An all-action international

Francisco, who has arrived from Greek side Peristeri, is an intriguing player who is set to make his EuroLeague debut next season. The France international adds plenty of defensive intensity and has improved his court sense and basketball IQ by playing for coaching dean Pedro Martinez and former EuroLeague superstar Vassilis Spanoulis in the last two seasons. He can now read the game better, but make no mistake, Francisco is a physical player who puts pressure on opposition defenses and is explosive at both ends of the floor.

 

### Unlocking potential

Bolmaro, an addition from Lenovo Tenerife, played in the 2021 EuroLeague Championship Game with FC Barcelona, losing against Anadolu Efes Istanbul. Back then, as a 20-year-old, he showed signs of the player he could become: a tall guard with long arms who can be a nuisance on defense but also use his body to attack the rim with very solid driving skills.

Now 22, the Argentine is very different from all of his new teammates and that gives him even more value. Bolmaro can be the team's glue guy, able to play in multiple spots, while he – like fellow versatile swingman Isaac Bonga, who is 23 – still has plenty of room for improvement. Expect Coach Laso to try and unlock Bolmaro's potential over the next two years.

Leandro Bolmaro helped FC Barcelona reach the 2021 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Championship Game. His role in the team improved during the season.

Leandro Bolmaro: 2020-21 EuroLeague highlights

### A top scorer candidate with lots of upside

Edwards is arguably the most interesting signing and, with more playing time, he could become an underdog candidate to claim the Alphonso Ford Top Scorer Trophy. Edwards has been an accomplished scorer in college, averaging 24.3 points in 36 games with Purdue University in the 2018-19 season.

He also found ways to score in the NBA and especially the G League, but the 25-year-old did not have a star role with Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul last season, averaging 8.0 points in 34 games. Just like Bonga, Edwards now has a year of EuroLeague experience under his belt and knows the competition well. Don't be surprised to see him bounce back in Munich and prove that he can be an elite scorer at this level.

Carsen Edwards made his Turkish Airlines EuroLeague debut with Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul in the 2022-23 season.

Carsen Edwards: 2022-23 EuroLeague highlights

### A fun season is in store

Looking at the picture as a whole, Bayern has a mix of great ballhandlers, sticky defenders, long-distance shooters and dangerous slashers in its backcourt, and that's even without mentioning its superstar and franchise player, forward Vladimir Lucic.

Players like Lucic, Booker and shot-blocking ace Freddie Gillespie can all finish above the rim, which is a perfect complement for Bayern's backcourt signings. If Coach Laso manages to make it work, Bayern has what it takes to be really competitive against anyone in the EuroLeague.

Bayern Munich News

Carsen Edwards, one of FC Bayern Munich's star summer signings, in action for Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul in the 2022-23 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season.

With one of the youngest backcourts in the competition, Bayern could be a problem for any opponent in the EuroLeague due to its physicality, versatility and scoring punch.  

Bayern fills its backcourt with endless combinations

ALBA Berlin will continue to rely on center Christ Koumadje after he signed a new three-year contract extension, the club confirmed Wednesday. Koumadje (2.23 meters, 27 years old) has spent the last three seasons playing in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague for ALBA, most recently averaging 6.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.0 blocks and a 7.8 PIR across 31 games in the 2022-23 campaign.

Christ Koumadje re-ups at ALBA, signs three-year contract extension

ALBA Berlin will continue to rely on center [Christ Koumadje](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/christ-koumadje/010791/) after he signed a new three-year contract extension, the club confirmed Wednesday. Koumadje (2.23 meters, 27 years old) has spent the last three seasons playing in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague for ALBA, most recently averaging 6.0 points, 3.8 rebounds, 1.0 blocks and a 7.8 PIR across 31 games in the 2022-23 campaign.

The best plays of ALBA Berlin center Christ Koumadje in the 2022-23 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season.

Christ Koumadje's top plays in 2022-23

Since joining ALBA midway through the 2020-21 season, the Chadian big man has shown a constant evolution in his game, resulting in career-best averages last year. What's more, he set personal-best marks across the board in 2022-23 for games played (31), games started (17), points (186), offensive rebounds (46), defensive rebounds (71), rebounds (117), assists (7), steals (9), blocks (32) and PIR (241).

Over his 56-game career in the EuroLeague, Koumadje has posted averages of 5.8 points, 3.9 rebounds and a 7.8 PIR. Now, the hope will be for him to continue his upwards trajectory over the next three seasons.

<center>

<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="de" dir="ltr">💛 BIG NEWS 💙<br><br>Christ Koumadje hat einen neuen Vertrag bei uns unterschrieben. Auf die nächsten drei Saisons im ALBA-Trikot! 🤜💥🤛<br><br>Alle Infos und Statements: <a href="https://t.co/dzO5ycdhKs">https://t.co/dzO5ycdhKs</a> <a href="https://t.co/tTUxr4sKmz">pic.twitter.com/tTUxr4sKmz</a></p>&mdash; ALBA BERLIN (@albaberlin) <a href="https://twitter.com/albaberlin/status/1684142399327555585?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 26, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>

### Quotes on the renewal

 

"In two and a half memorable seasons with ALBA, I have come to appreciate the philosophy and honesty of the club, as well as the historically good team chemistry," noted Koumadje. "I'm already looking forward to the upcoming season and to seeing our fans again at Mercedes-Benz Arena."

"We are pleased that we were able to extend Christ Koumadje's contract for three more years," said ALBA sports director, Himar Ojeda. "When we brought Christ here in the middle of the 2020/21 season, we took a gamble, because previously it had not worked out for him in a short time with two teams. But we saw Christ's potential and believed in him. Our trust was rewarded: Christ has developed very well in his two and a half years with us and has shown what a big factor he can be in our style of play. We will continue to follow this path and continue to work with him on his skills."

More ALBA Berlin News

Christ Koumadje dunks the ball in a game for ALBA Berlin in the 2022-23 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season.

Christ Koumadje signs three-year contract extension at ALBA

[Walter Tavares](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/walter-tavares/005791/) of Real Madrid has been chosen as the 2022-23 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Best Defender for the third time in his career.

Tavares becomes the third player to be chosen as the EuroLeague Best Defender three times. The first was Dimitris Diamantidis of Panathinaikos Athens (2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009 and 2011), who won the award six times. Kyle Hines also received the award three times: with CSKA Moscow in 2015 and 2018, and with Milan last season. Bryant Dunston of Efes received the award in consecutive seasons with Olympiacos in 2014 and 2015. In addition to the aforementioned winners, CSKA players Victor Khryapa and Andrei Kirilenko secured the award in 2010 and 2012, respectively, Stephane Lasme was the 2013 winner with Panathinaikos and Adam Hanga, then of Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz, took home the trophy in 2017.

Dimitris Diamantidis - Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2004-05

Dimitris Diamantidis - Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2005-06

Dimitris Diamantidis - Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2006-07

Dimitris Diamantidis - Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2007-08

Dimitris Diamantidis - Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2008-09

Victor Khryapa of CSKA Moscow - EuroLeague 2009-10

Dimitris Diamantidis - Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2010-11

Andrei Kirilenko - CSKA Moscow - EuroLeague 2011-12

Stephane Lasme - Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2012-13

Bryant Dunston of Olympiacos Piraeus - EuroLeague 2013-14

Bryant Dunston - Olympiacos Piraeus - EuroLeague 2014-15

Kyle Hines - CSKA Moscow - EuroLeague 2015-16

Adam Hanga - Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz - EuroLeague 2016-17

Kyle Hines - CSKA Moscow - EuroLeague 2017-18

Walter Tavares - Real Madrid - EuroLeague 2018-19

Walter Tavares - Real Madrid - EuroLeague 2021-22

Walter Tavares - Real Madrid - EuroLeague 2022-23

The EuroLeague Best Defender winners List:

Dimitris Diamantidis of Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2004-05

Dimitris Diamantidis of Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2005-06

Dimitris Diamantidis of Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2006-07

Dimitris Diamantidis of Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2007-08

Dimitris Diamantidis of Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2008-09

Victor Khryapa of CSKA Moscow - EuroLeague 2009-10

Dimitris Diamantidis of Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2010-11

Andrei Kirilenko of CSKA Moscow - EuroLeague 2011-12

Stephane Lasme of Panathinaikos Athens - EuroLeague 2012-13

Bryant Dunston of Olympiacos Piraeus - EuroLeague 2013-14

Bryant Dunston of Olympiacos Piraeus - EuroLeague 2014-15

Kyle Hines of CSKA Moscow - EuroLeague 2015-16

Adam Hanga of Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz - EuroLeague 2016-17

Kyle Hines of CSKA Moscow - EuroLeague 2017-18

Walter Tavares of Real Madrid - EuroLeague 2018-19

Walter Tavares of Real Madrid - EuroLeague 2020-21

Kyle Hines of Milan - EuroLeague 2021-22

Walter Tavares of Real Madrid - EuroLeague 2022-23

EuroLeague Best Defender Gallery

AS Monaco has had an almost perfect Turkish Airlines EuroLeague run over the two seasons it has taken part in the competition. In the first season, the team fell short of making the Final Four in the last game of a five-game playoff series and in 2022-23, it managed to qualify for the Final Four for the first time. Monaco has made headlines this summer with the signing of Kemba Walker from the NBA, too. Here is a look at some of the most interesting games on the Monaco schedule in 2023-24:

AS Monaco: 2023-24 games to watch

AS Monaco has had an almost perfect Turkish Airlines EuroLeague run over the two seasons it has taken part in the competition. In the first season, the team fell short of making the Final Four in the last game of a five-game playoff series and in 2022-23, it managed to qualify for the Final Four for the first time. Monaco has made headlines this summer with the signing of Kemba Walker from the NBA, too. Here is a look at some of the most interesting games on the Monaco schedule in 2023-24:

[AS Monaco regular-season schedule](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/as-monaco/games/mco/?season=2023-24)

### Coach Obradovic returns to his former home

[Round 3: Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade vs. AS Monaco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/crvena-zvezda-meridianbet-belgrade-as-monaco/E2023/25/#comparison)

Monaco head coach Sasa Obradovic has history with Zvezda. He made his debut as a pro player there in 1987 and played in Belgrade until 1993. He was back to the team for a couple more stints and then, when he switched roles and became a coach, he would be boss of his beloved team in 2020. That's why it was no surprise that, when Monaco visited Belgrade last season to play Zvezda, Obradovic kneeled in the middle of the court and kissed the huge logo of the team. This will be another special game for Coach Obradovic and there's no doubt that the Zvezda fans will receive him with another standing ovation.

Following a disappointing outing versus Real Madrid, consistency once again plagued Zvezda's bid to reach the postseason. They seek reprieve at the expense of co-leaders Monaco, whose aspirations for continental glory were cemented through a notable victory over Olympiacos.

Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade vs AS Monaco - Round 19 - Highlights

### A French League derby to try to turn the tide

[Round 7: AS Monaco vs. LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/as-monaco-ldlc-asvel-villeurbanne/E2023/62/#comparison)

There is no denying that in the French League derby between AS Monaco and LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne, the latter is the team with the most tradition on the European stage. However, over the last seasons, Monaco exploded in the EuroCup and managed to lift the title in 2021 (something ASVEL never did) and in its two EuroLeague campaigns, the team from the principality has won three of the four encounters they have had so far while placing above ASVEL in the standings both years. It is clear that Monaco is trying hard to change the status quo in the French League - as a matter of fact, the team just lifted its first French League title last June - and this derby against the other powerhouse in France will be a new opportunity to reach that goal.

All eyes turn to France for a derby that sees both targeting a return to winning-ways. ASVEL’s hopes of hitting the postseason are fading fast following a run of two wins in nine, while Monaco attempt to to harden the defense after allowing 95 points in a defeat to Real Madrid.

AS Monaco vs LDLC ASVEL Villeurbanne - Round 24 - Highlights

### A new rivalry takes a few more steps

[Round 11: AS Monaco vs. Olympiacos Piraeus ](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/as-monaco-olympiacos-piraeus/E2023/91/#comparison)

When Monaco advanced to the playoffs in its maiden EuroLeague season, many were suprised, but coach Georgios Bartzokas and Olympiacos were ready for the challenge because they knew what was at stake. And indeed, the series proved to be a long-distance test that went to Game 5, which Olympiacos won 94-88 in Piraeus. It was the spark that started it all. Last season, Monaco came back hard and swept their regular season games, but fate would have another game between these two teams in store: no less than a EuroLeague semifinal in Kaunas. In that game, Monaco led by 12 points at the halftime break, but a 27-2 third quarter allowed the Reds to jump ahead for good. The principality will be waiting for Olympiacos to show that it was just a temporary setback.

Two of the five teams tied for first place collide for a high-powered showdown that leaves the head-to-head advantage up for grabs. Will Monaco produce a stellar-showing in front of their home fans? Or can Olympiacos steal the glory to cement their championship-credentials?

AS Monaco vs Olympiacos Piraeus - Round 18 - Highlights

### A rematch of one of the hottest playoff series from 2023

[Round 18: Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv vs. AS Monaco](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/maccabi-playtika-tel-aviv-as-monaco/E2023/155/#comparison)

Last season, fate would have it that Monaco would face Maccabi in the best-of-five playoff series that granted a Final Four ticket to the winner. The series was a thrilling back-and-forth one in which Maccabi won the first game in Monaco, but then, Coach Sasa Obradovic's team went on to win Games 2 and 3 to take the lead in the series and be in a position to get one step further than the previous season. Game 4 was hell for Monaco: a 104-69 loss in Tel Aviv that seemed to give Maccabi all the momentum to win the series. However, Monaco stood proud at home led by Jordan Loyd and Mike James with 21 points apiece. The final 97-86 was decisive and Monaco punched the ticket to Kaunas. There's no doubt that Maccabi and its fans will be waiting eagerly for this game.

Mike James became the star of the show as a dazzling display in Game 3 handed Monaco the series lead for the first time. The Maccabi faithful played their part in creating a ferocious atmosphere, but can they roar their team on to bring the showdown to a final decider?

Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv vs AS Monaco - Playoffs Game 4 - Highlights

AS Monaco News

When Kemba Walker makes his EuroLeague debut in October with Monaco Basket, he will join a long list of former NBA lottery picks to compete in Europe's premier club basketball competition. And he is clearly among the most accomplished. Here’s a look back at some of those players who came before him.

Kemba Walker the latest former NBA lottery pick to come to the EuroLeague

When Kemba Walker makes his Turkish Airlines EuroLeague debut in October with AS Monaco, he will join a long list of former NBA lottery picks to compete in Europe's premier club basketball competition. And he is clearly among the most accomplished. Here’s a look back at some of those players who came before him.

To date, 28 players who were top 10 picks in the NBA Draft have played in the modern EuroLeague. The highest drafted players were [Andrea Bargnani](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/andrea-bargnani/bwz/) and [Anthony Bennett](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/anthony-bennett/007615/), who were both No. 1 overall selections. Bargnani, the top pick in the 2006 draft by the Toronto Raptors, finished his professional career with Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz in 2016-17. Bennett, meanwhile, was taken first in 2013 by the Cleveland Cavaliers and played for Fenerbahce Istanbul in 2017, when it won the EuroLeague.

Walker will become the fifth player to appear in the EuroLeague after being named to an All-NBA team, though two of those played in the previous era of the EuroLeague. They are Dominique Wilkins, who won the 1996 EuroLeague with Panathinaikos Athens, and Tom Chambers, who played for Maccabi Tel Aviv that same season. Joining them in the modern era were [Amar'e Stoudemire](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/amar-e-stoudemire/007069/) and [Pau Gasol](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/pau-gasol/adf/).

Stoudamire, a five-time All-NBA selection and six-time All-Star, played for Maccabi in the 2019-20 season. Gasol, a two-time NBA champion, four-time member of the All-NBA team and six-time All-Star, returned to his roots and completed his professional career with boyhood club FC Barcelona in 2021.

The former NBA lottery picks that have found the most success on the old continent are [Jan Vesely](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/jan-vesely/000925/) and [Ekpe Udoh](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/ekpe-udoh/006503/), who won the EuroLeague together with Fenerbahce in 2017. Vesely, who was drafted sixth overall by the Washington Wizards in 2011, returned to the EuroLeague when he signed with Fenerbahce in 2014. He is a three-time All-EuroLeague selection and the 2019 EuroLeague MVP. Udoh was also picked sixth overall, with the Golden State Warriors drafting him in 2010. He was the 2017 Final Four MVP and was named to the All-EuroLeague Team in both of his seasons with Fenerbahce.

Reigning EuroLeague champion [Mario Hezonja](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/mario-hezonja/003108/) was taken fifth by the Orlando Magic in the 2015 NBA Draft. He spent five seasons in the NBA. [Ricky Rubio ](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/rubio-ricky/lfw/)also won the EuroLeague after being drafted fifth overall. However, Rubio, who was taken by the Minnesota Timberwolves in 2009, opted to remain in Europe for two more seasons after being drafted. Thanks to that decision, he won the 2010 EuroLeague with Barcelona.

Other former lottery picks to have reached the EuroLeague Final Four include [Josh Childress](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/josh-childress/001225/) (sixth by the Atlanta Hawks in 2004) with Olympiacos Piraeus in 2010, [Dante Exum](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/dante-exum/profile/011302/) (fifth by the Utah Jazz in 2014) with Barcelona in 2022, Bennett with Fenerbahce in 2017 and Gasol with Barcelona in 2021.

[Marcus Fizer](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/marcus-fizer/tfs/) (fourth by the Chicago Bulls in 2000) played for Maccabi during the 2007-08 season, when it reached the championship game, but Fizer was injured and did not take part in the Final Four.

The most recent lottery pick to play in the EuroLeague was [Dragan Bender](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/dragan-bender/profile/004549/). He was drafted fourth overall by the Phoenix Suns in 2016 and returned to the EuroLeague with Maccabi for the 2020-21 campaign.

Walker will join this distinguished group this season, and time will tell whether he joins the likes of the greats or the also-rans.

Monaco News

Amar'e Stoudemire looks to dunk the ball in a Turkish Airlines EuroLeague game for Maccabi Playtika Tel Aviv in the 2019-20 season.

ALBA Berlin enters its fifth consecutive season in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season with the goal of reaching the playoffs for the first time. Over that stretch, it has compiled a 44-80 record. Let's take a look at some of the most important games on ALBA's schedule as it chases the playoff dream.

ALBA Berlin: 2023-24 games to watch

ALBA Berlin enters its fifth consecutive season in the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season with the goal of reaching the playoffs for the first time. Over that stretch, it has compiled a 44-80 record. Let's take a look at some of the most important games on [ALBA's schedule](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/teams/alba-berlin/games/ber/?season=2023-24) as it chases the playoff dream.

[Round 10: Real Madrid vs. ALBA Berlin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/real-madrid-alba-berlin/E2023/85/#comparison)

ALBA Berlin finds it harder to win in certain courts and WiZink Center in the Spanish capital has been one of them. In fact, Real has been virtually impossible for ALBA and even tougher in Madrid. Real is 10-0 against ALBA at home since the teams met each other for the first time back in 1998. In its last five visits, ALBA has lost by an average margin of 22.2 points. If ALBA wants to take a step forward and challenge the big names in the competition, putting on a strong performance in Madrid would be a good start.

Despite several injured absentees, Real have adapted and soared to monumental successes over Milan and Efes. They seek another advancement when confronting ALBA, who are aspiring to rediscover their early-season form after suffering four straight defeats.

Real Madrid vs ALBA Berlin - Round 8 - Highlights

[Round 15: ALBA Berlin vs. FC Barcelona](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/alba-berlin-fc-barcelona/E2023/127/#comparison)

To reach new heights, staying strong at Mercedes-Benz Arena, home of the 2024 Final Four, will be crucial. Historically, Barca has been among its toughest obstacles. Since the turn of the millennium, Barca is 6-1 against ALBA in the German capital and 13-1 overall. ALBA's only win came in 2015 when it topped Barca 80-70 at home. Last season's game at Mercedes-Benz Arena was a thriller: Barca edged ALBA 86-88, but the hosts kept their chances alive until the final seconds. Over the last three seasons, ALBA is 1-11 at home against teams that eventually made it to the Final Four and of course, 0-3 against Barca.

Two teams at opposing ends of the standings and on contradictory trajectories collide. ALBA are looking to arrest an alarming losing run, whilst high-flying Barça  are equipped with a blossoming Oscar Da Silva, who returns to face his former employers.

ALBA Berlin vs FC Barcelona - Round 11 - Highlights

[Round 22: ALBA Berlin vs. FC Bayern Munich](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/alba-berlin-fc-bayern-munich/E2023/190/#comparison)

The German derby in the country's capital is always a top-class showdown, and this should be extra special due to the identities of the men at the head of the teams' benches. Two-time EuroLeague champion Pablo Laso joined Bayern this summer after a year off and should be ready for a tough tactical test against Israel Gonzalez, who is in his third campaign with ALBA. It should be interesting to see how Laso's run-and-gun mentality works against ALBA's fun-to-watch basketball, which focuses on moving the ball as much as possible.

The stage is set for a pair of German-giants in the midst of contrasting fortunes as ALBA strive to restore optimism and end a three-game losing streak, whilst Bayern chase more progress after finally launching their crusade with a monumental win over Efes.

ALBA Berlin vs FC Bayern Munich - Round 7 - Highlights

[Round 28: Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz vs. ALBA Berlin](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/game-center/2023-24/baskonia-vitoria-gasteiz-alba-berlin/E2023/252/#comparison)

There has been a lot of transit between these teams in recent years: Simone Fontecchio. Landry Nnoko, Rokas Giedraitis and Jayson Granger have all played for both ALBA and Baskonia in consecutive seasons. ALBA has been quite competitive against Baskonia in recent seasons. In 2021, ALBA grabbed a 77-84 road victory at Buesa Arena. Last season, Baskonia had to battle to edge ALBA 93-87 behind 23 points, 10 rebounds and a career-high PIR of 40 by Maik Kotsar. Both teams like to play at a high rhythm and this late-season game could have ramifications for both sides as ALBA seeks a statement win in one of the toughest courts in the competition.

A run of three without a win leaves Baskonia in treacherous territory for the postseason. They aim to bolster their prospects versus ALBA, who seek more encouragement following a triumphant evening at the expense of Efes.

Cazoo Baskonia Vitoria-Gasteiz vs ALBA Berlin - Round 31 - Highlights

ALBA Berlin News

FC Bayern Munich has secured the signing of Devin Booker, who has penned a two-year contract at Audi Dome. Booker (2.05 meters, 32 years old) returns to Bayern after previously playing for the club between 2016 and 2019. Last season, Booker averaged 5.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.1 assists and a 6.6 PIR across 31 EuroLeague games for Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul, mostly from the bench. 

Devin Booker returns to Bayern Munich

FC Bayern Munich has secured the signing of [Devin Booker](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/devin-booker/007056/), who has penned a two-year contract at Audi Dome. Booker (2.05 meters, 32 years old) returns to Bayern after previously playing for the club between 2016 and 2019. During his time at the German club, he was named to the 2017-18 All-EuroCup First Team. Last season, Booker averaged 5.8 points, 3.3 rebounds, 1.1 assists and a 6.6 PIR across 31 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague games for Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul, mostly from the bench.

The best plays of new FC Bayern Munich signing Devin Booker during the 2022-23 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season with Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul.

Devin Booker's top plays in 2022-23

### Heading 'home' with more experience

Booker played one season in the EuroLeague with Bayern in the 2018-19 campaign, posting 8.9 points, 3.4 rebounds, 1.5 assists and a 9.8 PIR in 16 appearances, before heading to Khimki Moscow Region in the summer of 2019. The American center spent two seasons with Khimki, enjoying an impressive debut campaign with the Russian club in 2019-20 as he averaged 11.6 points, 4.8 rebounds, 1.2 assists and a 13.9 PIR across 28 contests. He managed to better those numbers in the following season, though, as he averaged 13.1 points, 5.7 rebounds, 2.1 assists and a 15.3 PIR in 15 games, although it proved to be an injury-affected season for the big man.

After impressing with Khimki, Fenerbahce moved to sign Booker in the summer of 2021. As a starter, he posted 9.1 points, 4.4 rebounds, 1.6 assists and a 10.9 PIR through 29 appearances. Then, last year, he played behind Johnathan Motley and fought for minutes with Tonye Jekiri, which resulted in lower averages. Nevertheless, Booker is still in the prime of his career at 31 and has a lot to offer Pablo Laso's Bayern.

<center>
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="de" dir="ltr">🙌 BOOK is BACK! Ihr wollt ihn, Ihr kriegt ihn: <a href="https://twitter.com/DevinBooker31?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@DevinBooker31</a> ist zurück im <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCBB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCBB</a>-Dress! Alle Infos ⤵️<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/FCBB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#FCBB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WeBallTogether?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WeBallTogether</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/Booker2025?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#Booker2025</a></p>&mdash; FC Bayern Basketball (@FCBBasketball) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBBasketball/status/1683396600595640320?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 24, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script>
</center>

### His first spell at Bayern

Having played for Bayern between 2016 and 2019, Booker spent his first two seasons with the club in the BKT EuroCup. Over that period, he averaged 12.9 points, 5.6 rebounds, 1.6 assists and a 15.9 PIR in 38 games, of which 26 were as a starter. Bayern reached the EuroCup Quarterfinals in Booker's first year at the club, before ending the season with a semifinal finish in 2017-18. Upon Bayern's jump to the EuroLeague in 2018, Booker and his teammates had a respectable 14-16 record, finishing 11th in the standings.

Before playing in Europe with Bayern, Khimki and Fenerbahce, the Clemson University graduate made his professional debut with French first division side SLUC Nancy in the 2013-14 season, but he spent the majority of that campaign with a team in France's second tier, Mincidelice JL Bourg en Bresse. After securing promotion with Bourg, Booker remained with the team on its return to the top flight in 2014-15. He signed for fellow French first division team Elan Chalon in the 2015-16 season, then in the summer of 2016 he joined Bayern and began his journey in the EuroCup and the EuroLeague.

Devin Booker, who has returned to FC Bayern Munich, in action for Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul during the 2022-23 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague season.

Devin Booker returns to Bayern

Olimpia Milano has confirmed the arrival of Maodo Lo. Lo (1.91 meters, 30 years old) has spent his entire EuroLeague career playing in Germany, most recently averaging 11.6 points, 1.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists and a 10.6 PIR for ALBA Berlin. The Berlin-born point guard has spent the last three seasons with ALBA, having previously played in the EuroLeague with Brose Bamberg (2016-18) and FC Bayern Munich (2018-20).

Maodo Lo moves from ALBA Berlin to Olimpia Milano

EA7 Emporio Armani Milan has confirmed the arrival of [Maodo Lo](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/players/maodo-lo/007032/), who has penned a two-year deal with the Italian side. Lo (1.91 meters, 30 years old) has spent his entire Turkish Airlines EuroLeague career playing in Germany, most recently averaging 11.6 points, 1.7 rebounds, 2.9 assists and a 10.6 PIR for ALBA Berlin. The Berlin-born point guard has spent the last three seasons with ALBA, his hometown team, having previously played in the EuroLeague with Brose Bamberg (2016-18) and FC Bayern Munich (2018-20). Lo now heads to Milan and, at 30, will test himself away from Germany for the first time in his pro career.

The best plays of new EA7 Emporio Armani Milan signing Maodo Lo during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague seasons with ALBA Berlin.

Maodo Lo's top plays in 2021-22 and 2022-23

### A reliable option on offense

In each of the last two seasons, Lo has averaged double-digit points in the EuroLeague. In the 2021-22 campaign, the guard posted career-high averages of 13.3 points, 2.3 rebounds, 3.7 assists and a 14.8 PIR. In fact, that season, Lo scored 10 points or more on 25 occasions across 33 appearances. His performance in a 90-75 home win against Olympiacos Piraeus in Round 29 was particularly impressive, as he had 27 points, 5 rebounds, 7 assists, 1 steal and a 34 PIR, [good enough for MVP of the Round honors](https://www.euroleaguebasketball.net/euroleague/news/round-29-mvp-maodo-lo-alba-berlin/).

During the 2022-23 season, when he averaged 11.6 points per game, Lo again managed to score in double digits in the majority of his games, doing so 17 times in 26 appearances. While he got above the 20-point mark on seven occasions in 2021-22, he managed to do so twice last season, scoring 25 points at home to Valencia Basket in Round 21 and 24 points on the road at Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade in Round 25. Prior to the last two campaigns, Lo's best points average had been the 9.5 he posted in his first year at ALBA in 2020-21.

<center><blockquote class="twitter-tweet"><p lang="it" dir="ltr">La Pallacanestro Olimpia Milano comunica di aver raggiunto un accordo fino al 2025 con Maodo Lo. ⚪️🔴<br><br>Benvenuto Lo➡️ <a href="https://t.co/kbQs9UQvTT">https://t.co/kbQs9UQvTT</a><br>Welcome Lo ➡️ <a href="https://t.co/Qt4afMh8zH">https://t.co/Qt4afMh8zH</a><a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/insieme?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#insieme</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/forzaolimpia?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#forzaolimpia</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/WelcomeLo?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#WelcomeLo</a> <a href="https://t.co/CHHTA3A4Qy">pic.twitter.com/CHHTA3A4Qy</a></p>&mdash; Olimpia Milano (@OlimpiaMI1936) <a href="https://twitter.com/OlimpiaMI1936/status/1682680172988735488?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 22, 2023</a></blockquote> <script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script> 

### Plenty of EuroLeague experience

Lo may be coming into his own in terms of scoring the basketball, but the point guard has also racked up plenty of EuroLeague experience over the last seven seasons. He played 56 games in the competition for Bamberg, 57 for Bayern and then 86 for ALBA, so he heads to Milan with 199 games – and 100 starts – of know-how behind him. Across those games, Lo has scored a total of 1,788 points, grabbed a combined 321 rebounds, dished 515 assists, recorded 120 steals and accumulated a total PIR of 1,537. As such, his career averages stand at 9.0 points, 1.6 rebounds, 2.6 assists and a 7.7 PIR.

Maodo Lo, ALBA: 'My mother's passion for art is parallel to my passion for basketball'

A member of the German national team, Lo will join up with fellow teammate Johannes Voigtmann at Mediolanum Forum, as well as former Bamberg teammate Nicolo Melli.

Milan News

New EA7 Emporio Armani Milan signing Maodo Lo in possession of the ball during an ALBA Berlin game in the 2022-23 Turkish Airlines EuroLeague Regular Season.