Following the organisation’s announcement today, Caledonia Gladiators women’s side will join the men’s side in European competition this upcoming campaign, as their place in FIBA EuroCup Women was confirmed. Gladiators, coached by Miguel Ortega, will enter the prestigious continental competition in the group stage, having the opportunity to enter the tournament’s regular season.
This comes as historic news for the organisation, as they become the first Scottish women’s side in modern history to enter European competition.
EuroCup Women is the second-tier competition for continent-wide basketball in Europe, behind only EuroLeague. Founded in 2002, Dynamo Moscow has won the most titles (3), with LDLC Asvel winning the most recent. After qualifying rounds, 48 teams will make it to the regular season group stage, before the best 32 qualify for the playoffs.
Last campaign, teams such as Galatasaray, the winners Asvel, and the UK’s London Lions competed in the tournament, with London reaching the first round of the playoffs, losing to Villeneuve.
This season, Galatasaray, Girona, and Olympiacos stand out as European giants in the competition. The only other British side in European competition is London Lions, who are set to compete in EuroLeague qualifiers.
The draw to sort teams in the Regular Season (as well as qualifiers) will take place in Munich, Germany on August 9.
Lisa Palombo, Head of BBL (women) and community, said: “It’s superb news that we can now confirm our women will also be competing in Europe. It’s a serious nod to the hard work across Caledonia Gladiators as a whole and I am delighted for all involved. We can’t wait to bring this level of basketball to the Scottish fans.”
So far, the re-signings of Erin McGarrachan, Robyn Lewis, and Chantelle Handy have been confirmed, with more roster news expected to come out in the coming days and weeks.
