From the Olympic Museum of Lausanne, in Switzerland, the General Manager of Basketball Trieste, Michael Archerscommented with emotion and pride the draws of the groups of the Basketball Champions Leaguewhich in its tenth edition also marks the return of the red and white to the European stage after over twenty years.
“Being sitting in that Auditorium, listening to the name of Trieste among the participating teams, was a truly special moment full of emotion. Finding himself here in Lausanne, together with all the other companies, participating in the program of Basketball Champions League and discovering their history – especially in this tenth symbolic season – was extremely significant.
During the draw, observing the ceremony and listening to the intervention of the CEO of the BCL, Patrick Comninos, I felt deeply proud. I tried an authentic joy for the city of Trieste, for our fans, for our players. It was perhaps the first real moment when I was able to stop, to do a deep breath and realize the great job that we have all done in the last two years.
This goal is the result of the commitment of the players, the technical staff, the daily dedication of Paul and the support of all those who believed in this project. Knowing that we too, Trieste, are here, ready to represent our colors in Europe, is a reason for enormous satisfaction and pride. We will bring the red and white flag with pride, with the aim of best representing our city. It was, without a doubt, an afternoon full of emotions.
The draws have reserved a very competitive group. We will face Galatasaray, a team of great tradition and among the best in the Turkish championship, which is one of the most difficult and competitive in Europe. We will then challenge Igakea, from Bosnia and Herzegovina, and Würzburg, from Germany. We will therefore have the opportunity to play in three different countries – Türkiye, Germany and Bosnia – and bring the name of Trieste to important international contexts.
All these teams have great value. The general level of the BCL has grown considerably in recent years and each group is demanding. There are no simple groups: there are many high -level teams and each game will be a real challenge. Today I also had the opportunity to personally get to know many representatives of the other clubs and listen to their stories: it was an interesting, engaging and also stimulating moment from a human point of view. Now we will prepare the best to face this new adventure.
We are aware that the competitiveness of this edition of the BCL will be very high. In addition to our Italian championship, which in itself is very hard, we will have the privilege – and the responsibility – to represent Italy in Europe. The level of the competition has grown from season to season, as well as the number of teams equipped to win. Each training will be able to test us. I sincerely believe that this will be the most competitive edition ever: for the quality of play, for the talent of the players and for depth of the rosters.
It will be an intense challenge, perhaps the most demanding since Paul and I are here. But we are ready to face it with enthusiasm. We know that there are no shortcuts: only work, sacrifice, daily passion count. We will face all this with determination, pride and the desire to grow. We can’t wait to start. “
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