Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain – In a stunning upset that reverberated through the European basketball world, Surne Bilbao Basket claimed the Spanish Copa del Rey title on February 22, 2026, defeating powerhouse Real Madrid 100-89. The victory marks a significant milestone for the Basque club, ending a 17-year drought since their last Copa del Rey triumph in 2009. The win was fueled by a dominant performance in the fourth quarter, where they outscored Real Madrid 33-17, securing a memorable victory for the team and its fans. Lithuanian player Gytis Radzevičius played a role in the victory, contributing to the team’s success despite limited minutes.
The atmosphere in the Fernando Buesa Arena was electric as Bilbao Basket faced off against the defending champions. The game was a tightly contested affair for three quarters, with both teams trading blows. Still, Bilbao Basket found another gear in the final stretch, showcasing a remarkable display of offensive prowess and defensive resilience. The team’s collective effort, spearheaded by a trio of standout players, proved too much for Real Madrid to handle. This victory is particularly sweet for Bilbao Basket, a team that has consistently strived for excellence but often found itself falling short in recent years. The win represents a turning point for the club, signaling a novel era of competitiveness and ambition.
A Trio Leads Bilbao Basket to Victory
Bilbao Basket’s triumph was built on the exceptional performances of Timothé Luwawu-Cabarrot, Eugene Omoruyi, and Trent Forrest. Together, the three players accounted for a staggering 73 of the team’s 100 points. Luwawu-Cabarrot led the scoring with 28 points, shooting efficiently from both inside and outside the arc (7/8 two-pointers, 1/4 three-pointers, and 11/11 free throws), while also grabbing 5 rebounds. Omoruyi contributed a strong 23 points, and Forrest nearly recorded a triple-double with 22 points, 9 rebounds, and 11 assists. Forrest’s all-around performance earned him the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award, with a performance index rating of 38.
While the offensive firepower of these three players was crucial, Bilbao Basket’s success was also a testament to their collective defensive effort. They effectively contained Real Madrid’s key players, forcing turnovers and limiting their scoring opportunities. The team’s ability to execute their game plan and remain composed under pressure was a key factor in their victory. The win wasn’t just about individual brilliance; it was a demonstration of teamwork, determination, and a shared belief in their ability to overcome adversity.
Radzevičius Contributes to Historic Win
Lithuanian forward Gytis Radzevičius played a supporting role in Bilbao Basket’s historic victory, logging 25 minutes of playing time. He finished the game with 2 points (1/1 from two-point range, 0/1 from three-point range), 5 rebounds (4 offensive), and a +/– rating of +22 – the highest among all players on the court. According to Lrytas.lt, this impressive plus/minus statistic highlights his positive impact on the game despite his limited scoring output. His rebounding prowess, particularly on the offensive end, provided valuable second-chance opportunities for his team.
Unfortunately, Radzevičius’s compatriot, Tadas Sedekerskis, was unable to participate in the final due to a persistent ankle injury. Sedekerskis has been sidelined since mid-November, and his absence was undoubtedly felt by the team. Despite his injury, Sedekerskis was present to celebrate with his teammates, sharing in the joy of their hard-earned victory.
Real Madrid Falls Short
Despite a valiant effort, Real Madrid was unable to overcome Bilbao Basket’s relentless attack. Andrés Felíz and Mario Hezonja led the scoring for Real Madrid with 15 points each, while Facundo Campazzo added 14 points and Tomás Maledón contributed 12. However, their combined efforts were not enough to counter the balanced scoring and dominant performance of Bilbao Basket’s key players. Real Madrid had previously eliminated Unicaja Málaga in the quarterfinals, but they ultimately fell short against a determined Bilbao Basket team.
The defeat marks a rare setback for Real Madrid, a club that has consistently been a dominant force in Spanish basketball. They last won the Copa del Rey in 2024, and this loss will undoubtedly serve as a motivation for them to regroup and come back stronger in future competitions. The game highlighted the competitive nature of Spanish basketball, where any team is capable of upsetting even the most established contenders.
The Road to the Championship
Bilbao Basket’s journey to the Copa del Rey title was not without its challenges. They overcame Tenerife in the quarterfinals with a score of 91-81 and then secured a hard-fought victory against Barcelona in the semifinals, winning 70-67. These victories demonstrated their resilience and ability to perform under pressure. The team’s consistent improvement throughout the season culminated in their triumphant performance in the final, solidifying their status as a legitimate contender in Spanish basketball.
This is the seventh Copa del Rey title in Bilbao Basket’s history. Their previous triumph came in 2009, making this victory particularly meaningful for the club and its loyal fanbase. The win is a testament to the dedication and hard work of the players, coaches, and staff, who have all contributed to the team’s success. The celebrations in Vitoria-Gasteiz are expected to continue for days as fans revel in the glory of their team’s historic achievement.
Looking Ahead
Bilbao Basket’s Copa del Rey victory is a significant moment for the club and a testament to the growing strength of Spanish basketball. The team’s success will undoubtedly inspire a new generation of players and fans, and it will serve as a reminder that anything is possible with hard work, determination, and a strong team spirit. The focus now shifts to the remainder of the season, where Bilbao Basket will look to build on their momentum and compete for further honors.
The Spanish basketball league is known for its high level of competition, and Bilbao Basket will face tough challenges in the coming months. However, with a talented roster, a dedicated coaching staff, and a passionate fanbase, they are well-positioned to continue their success and make a lasting impact on the sport. The team’s victory in the Copa del Rey has not only brought joy to their fans but has also elevated the profile of Spanish basketball on the international stage.
The next major event for Bilbao Basket will be their league match against Valencia Basket on March 5, 2026. This game will be a crucial test for the team as they look to maintain their position in the league standings. Fans are encouraged to follow the team’s progress and support them as they continue their quest for success. Share your thoughts on Bilbao Basket’s historic victory in the comments below!
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