The road to the Basketball Champions League (BCL) regular season is heating up, and for dedicated hoops fans, the qualifying tournaments offer a compelling preview of European basketball talent. From September 19th to 25th, the spotlight shines on Samokov, Bulgaria, where three direct-elimination tournaments will crown the final qualifiers.These three victorious teams will earn their spot alongside 29 already-qualified clubs, setting the stage for an exciting BCL season.

Teams to Watch in the BCL Qualifiers

Several clubs bring intriguing storylines and past European experience to these crucial qualifiers:

• PAOK Mateco: This Greek powerhouse is no stranger to European competition. Last year, thay reached the final of the FIBA Europe Cup, showcasing their ability to go deep in continental tournaments. Their consistent presence in European nights makes them a strong contender for their eighth BCL campaign.
• Reggiana Basketball: The Italian club has a history of success in the BCL, having reached the quarterfinals in a previous season, where they were only eliminated by a top-tier opponent. Their experience in high-stakes European games is a significant asset.
• SC Derby: While they reached the finals of the Montenegrin League, their European pedigree is less established than some of their counterparts.Though, emerging teams frequently enough surprise, and their domestic success indicates a team on the rise.
• Pelister bitola: The North Macedonian club faced challenges in their domestic league, unable to contend for the title. Their performance in these qualifiers will be a key indicator of their current form and European readiness.
• Bursaspor Basketbol: This Turkish club has participated in the BCL before, demonstrating their capability to compete at this level. their previous BCL appearance in the 2023-24 season suggests they are a recent contender.
• Lowen Braunschweig: Notably owned by NBA player Dennis Schroder, this German team brings a unique narrative. While they may not have reached the final stages domestically, the association with an NBA star could translate to increased ambition and talent.
• Windrose Giants Antwerp: The Belgian club has two previous BCL campaigns under their belt, providing them with valuable experience in navigating the tournament’s structure and demands.
• CSM CSU Raiffeisen Oradea: This Romanian team secured a second-place finish in their domestic league, a respectable achievement. They have a prior BCL appearance from the 2016-17 season, indicating a past foray into this competitive arena.

Past BCL Presence

for U.S. fans who appreciate consistent performance, the BCL’s history offers context:

• AEK BC: Stands out as the only team to have participated in all ten BCL regular seasons, a testament to their enduring presence and success.
• PAOK: Is the Greek team with the most BCL appearances after AEK, aiming for their eighth season.
• Windrose Antwerp Giants and Pallacanestro Reggiana: Each boast two BCL campaigns, showing a solid track record.
• CSM CSU Oradea and Bursaspor Basketbol: Have one BCL presence each, with Bursaspor’s being more recent in the 2023-24 season.

Tournament Format and Key Matchups

The qualifying tournaments are structured as direct elimination, meaning every game is critical. The winners of these three tournaments will secure their place in the BCL regular season. For instance, the winner of QRT2, hosted by Reggiana, will join a formidable Group C alongside Joventut Badalona (Spain), Hapoel Netanel Holon (Israel), and Cholet Basket (France).

QRT2 Tournament Schedule (Reggio Emilia)

All times are local.

• September 19,2025:
• CSM Oradea vs.Antwerp Giants: 71-79
• Reggiana Basketball vs. Pelister: 99-87
• Bursaspor vs. Lowen Braunschweig: 81-74
• PAOK vs. SC Derby: 79-67