Nine years ago today, February 18, 2026, marks the anniversary of a significant victory for Real Madrid basketball. On this date in 2017, the club secured its 27th Copa del Rey title in a thrilling final against Valencia Basket, held in Vitoria-Gasteiz. The game was a nail-biter, decided by a mere two points with a final score of 97-95. This win wasn’t just another trophy for Real Madrid; it represented a remarkable achievement – their fourth consecutive Copa del Rey title, a feat unmatched in Spanish basketball for 34 years.
The path to the championship wasn’t uncomplicated. Real Madrid demonstrated resilience and skill throughout the tournament, overcoming tough competition in both the quarterfinal and semifinal rounds. The team first faced Andorra, ultimately prevailing 99-93 after a hard-fought contest that went into overtime. This victory showcased Real Madrid’s ability to perform under pressure and stage comebacks, setting the tone for their continued success in the Copa del Rey.
A Tournament Defined by Overtime Thrillers
The semifinal matchup against the host team, Baskonia, proved to be another intense battle. Real Madrid once again found themselves in an overtime situation, ultimately emerging victorious with a score of 99-103. This win secured their place in the final against Valencia Basket and highlighted their determination to defend their title. The intensity of these games underscored the competitive nature of the Copa del Rey and Real Madrid’s ability to navigate challenging circumstances.
Sergio Llull, a key player for Real Madrid, delivered a standout performance in the final, leading the team in scoring with 22 points. His contributions were instrumental in securing the victory and earned him the prestigious title of MVP (Most Valuable Player) of the tournament. Llull’s performance exemplified his consistent excellence and solidified his status as one of the top players in Spanish basketball. Real Madrid’s official website commemorates the anniversary, highlighting the significance of this victory.
The 2026 Copa del Rey: A Look at the Current Competition
Fast forward to 2026, and the Copa del Rey is once again a focal point for Spanish basketball fans. The draw for the 2026 tournament, held at the Palau de les Arts Reina Sofía in Valencia, has set the stage for another exciting competition. Eight teams – Real Madrid, Valencia Basket, Barça, UCAM Murcia, Kosner Baskonia, Unicaja, La Laguna Tenerife, and Joventut Badalona – will compete for the coveted title. Gigantes.com provides a detailed overview of the matchups and schedule.
Quarterfinal Matchups
The quarterfinal round is scheduled for Thursday, February 19th, and Friday, February 20th. The matchups are as follows:
- Valencia Basket vs. Joventut Badalona (Thursday, February 19th, 18:00h)
- Real Madrid vs. Unicaja (Thursday, February 19th, 21:00h)
- Kosner Baskonia vs. La Laguna Tenerife (Friday, February 20th, 18:00h)
- Barça vs. UCAM Murcia (Friday, February 20th, 21:00h)
Kosner Baskonia earned their position as a top seed after a recent victory against Dreamland Gran Canaria, securing their advantage in the tournament bracket. The semifinals are slated for Saturday, February 21st, with the final showdown taking place on Sunday, February 22nd at 19:00h.
Real Madrid’s Dominance in the Copa del Rey
Real Madrid’s success in the Copa del Rey is a testament to their consistent performance and dedication to excellence. The club currently holds the record for the most Copa del Rey titles, with a total of 29 championships, including their most recent win in 2024. According to Gigantes.com, FC Barcelona follows closely behind with 27 Copa del Rey titles, their last victory coming in 2022. This rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona continues to drive the excitement and competitiveness of Spanish basketball.
The 2017 victory, celebrated today, was a pivotal moment in Real Madrid’s Copa del Rey history, solidifying their position as a dominant force in Spanish basketball. The team’s ability to overcome adversity, coupled with the exceptional performance of players like Sergio Llull, made this win particularly memorable for fans and players alike.
The current Copa del Rey tournament promises another chapter of exciting basketball action, with fierce competition and talented teams vying for the championship title. As the tournament unfolds in Valencia, fans eagerly anticipate witnessing recent rivalries, unforgettable moments, and the crowning of a new Copa del Rey champion. The legacy of past victories, like the one celebrated today, serves as a reminder of the rich history and enduring passion for basketball in Spain.
The competition continues, and the eyes of basketball fans across Spain – and beyond – are fixed on Valencia as the 2026 Copa del Rey progresses. Stay tuned for updates on the semifinals and final, as teams battle for supremacy on the court.
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