Nymburk Reaches Basketball Champions League Quarterfinals with Upset Win Over Gran Canaria
GRAN CANARIA, Spain – ERA Nymburk secured a stunning victory over Dreamland Gran Canaria on Tuesday, earning a spot in the Basketball Champions League Quarterfinals. The Czech champions defeated Gran Canaria 92-82, exceeding the four-point margin needed to eliminate the Spanish side and advance in the tournament. The win marks a significant achievement for Nymburk, a team that overcame early-season struggles and the loss of a key player to reach this stage.
The victory was particularly impressive considering Nymburk had to win by four or more points to advance, a task made even more challenging on Gran Canaria’s home court, considered one of the toughest venues in European basketball. Coach Oren Amiel devised a game plan that saw his team explode for 31 points in the fourth quarter, capped off by a crucial three-pointer from Goran Filipovic to seal the deal.
Shumate Leads the Way for Nymburk
J.T. Shumate led the scoring for Nymburk with 22 points, including six successful three-pointers. Jaromir Bohacik added 16 points, while Filipovic contributed 15. The team’s balanced attack proved too much for Gran Canaria, despite a strong performance from Nicolas Brussino, who scored 19 points for the home team.
Filipovic’s impact extended beyond scoring; Nymburk was a +22 team during his 23 minutes on the court, highlighting his crucial role in the win. Tony Perkins as well contributed with 11 points, five of which came in clutch moments during the fourth quarter.
A Remarkable Run to the Quarterfinals
Nymburk’s journey to the quarterfinals has been nothing short of remarkable. They initially faced elimination in the Group Phase, needing a specific set of results to advance after a loss to Elan Chalon. However, a favorable outcome in another game allowed them to progress with a 1-5 record. They then swept MLP Academics Heidelberg in the Round of 16, despite lacking home-court advantage, and navigated a challenging Group L to reach the Quarterfinals.
The team has also had to overcome adversity with the absence of their top scorer, Sir’ Jabari Rice. Despite this setback, Nymburk has demonstrated resilience and a strong team spirit, qualities praised by players and coaches alike.
Kříž Highlights Team Spirit
“Hat off to everyone. Everyone on the bench and on the court did an incredible job. I think a lot of people didn’t believe in us, so I’m glad we were able to do it. I’m proud of everyone on the team for just never giving up,” said Nymburk player Martin Kříž following the game. “Even though we were slightly trailing at halftime, we were able to turn it around and ultimately succeed.”
Looking Ahead: Quarterfinal Draw
Nymburk will learn their quarterfinal opponent during a draw scheduled for Friday. The first leg of the quarterfinal series will be played either March 31st or April 1st, away from home, with the return leg taking place a week later in Prague. A potential third game, if needed, would be played on the opponent’s home court on April 14th or 15th.
This will be Nymburk’s fourth appearance in the quarterfinals of the Basketball Champions League, having previously reached this stage in 2020, 2021, and 2023. Last year, they were defeated by Galatasaray Istanbul. The team is now aiming for their first-ever appearance in the Final Four.
“Of those four, this was probably the hardest advancement. With how it was unfolding, I think many people didn’t believe in us. What we showed today… it was an incredible game,” Kříž added.
Nymburk played this crucial game without Marcus Santos-Silva due to injury, but the return of Ondřej Sehnal to the lineup provided a boost. Despite falling behind early, with Gran Canaria taking a 20-14 lead after the first quarter, Nymburk battled back, ultimately securing a historic victory.
The team’s ability to overcome adversity and execute their game plan under pressure demonstrates their growing maturity and potential on the European stage. Nymburk’s success story is a testament to their dedication, teamwork, and the leadership of Coach Amiel.
Next Up: Nymburk awaits the results of the quarterfinal draw on Friday to determine their next opponent and the schedule for the two-leg series.
