This week, both Miguel Ortega and Gareth Murray’s side will take to the European stage in EuroCup Women and FIBA Europe Cup action. Firstly, the men’s side welcome ACB side Bilbao to PlaySport in their final group stage game – with the chance of advancing, then the women’s squad travels to Lisbon to take on S.L. Benfica, the side who they defeated in their home opener.
Caledonia Gladiators vs Surne Bilbao Basket (H)
Following a challenging weekend against Newcastle Eagles in a hard-fought and physical game, Caledonia Gladiators welcome Surne Basket Bilbao, who handed them their heaviest defeat so far this season, 106-58, in Spain a few weeks ago.
In Bilbao, for the hosts, it was Estonian guard Kristian Kullamae who was the standout performer. He put up an impressive 25 points, four rebounds, and three steals, shooting 9-13 from the field. For Gladiators, it was Lukas Palyza who led the way, scoring 15 points, alongside two steals.
Although the visiting Scots remained in the game throughout the first half, with the score 42-33 as the teams went to the locker rooms, Bilbao really showed their class in the second half, scoring an impressive 34 and 30 points in the final two quarters.
Bilbao has already qualified for the next round of the Europe Cup, whilst Gladiators are still on the hunt to become one of the top-six second-best teams in the groups. With other results going in favour of the side, and a win over Bilbao, Gladiators are in with a chance of advancing. Get your tickets for the European action HERE!
S.L. Benfica vs Caledonia Gladiators (A)
After a huge break in club action due to the recent international break, Gladiators travel to Lisbon, Portugal, to take on S.L Benfica in their away leg, who were subject to Caledonia’s first European win at home, coming out 73-52 victors.
In East Kilbride, for the Scots, it was Malian international Djeneba N’Diaye who was the top scorer. She put up a solid 19 points, two rebounds, and an assist, shooting 6-18 from the floor. For Benfica, it was American Keilanei Cooper who led the way despite the loss, scoring 18 points, alongside two rebounds and assists.
Despite Benfica leading the way in the first, Gladiators got back into the game and ran away with it, eventually coming out with an extremely solid 21-point victory.
Gladiators head into the game in a great position, searching for a top spot in their group, currently sitting in second having played one less game than leaders, Namur Capitale. Benfica are still searching for their first win in the competition. Watch the action live on FIBA’s YouTube HERE!
