The Euroleague consists of two phases: the Regular Season and the Playoffs. The Regular Season is the first stage of the competition, where participating teams are divided into four different groups. Each group is made up of eight teams, resulting in a total of 32 teams competing in the Regular Season. The teams within each group face each other twice, once at home and once away, resulting in a total of 14 games for each team.
During the Regular Season, teams accumulate points based on their performance in each game. A win grants the team two points, while a loss awards no points. Additionally, there are several tiebreakers in place to determine the rankings in case of teams having equal points at the end of the Regular Season. These tiebreakers include head-to-head results, point difference, and overall ranking in performance indicators.
Upon the conclusion of the Regular Season, the top four teams from each group advance to the Playoffs. This creates a dynamic playoff picture, as it ensures that teams must consistently perform at a high level throughout the Regular Season to secure a spot in the Playoffs. The sixteen qualified teams are then paired in a best-of-five series, with the winners advancing to the next round.
The Playoffs are divided into three stages: the Quarterfinals, the Semifinals, and the Finals. The Quarterfinals consist of eight teams, who play against their opponents in a best-of-five series. The four victorious teams from the Quarterfinals progress to the Semifinals, where they compete once again in a best-of-five series. Finally, the last two surviving teams advance to the Finals, which is a single best-of-five series to determine the Euroleague champion.
In recent years, there have been efforts to further enhance the competitiveness of the Euroleague competition. The league introduced a new format from the 2016-2017 season onwards, known as the “Euroleague Basketball Management Model.” This model aimed to establish a more elite and stable playing ground, with participation based on long-term club licenses. It also introduced a systemic approach that includes various basketball and a revamped ranking system.
The Euroleague has also expanded its reach outside of Europe. The competition collaborates with FIBA’s Basketball Champions League, wherein the best performing teams from different national leagues have the opportunity to compete in Europe’s elite competition. This collaboration further strengthens the Euroleague’s position as a top-tier basketball competition and increases its global footprint.
In conclusion, the Euroleague is a highly prestigious basketball league in Europe, showcasing the best teams from various countries. Its unique format, which includes a Regular Season and Playoffs, ensures that only the most deserving teams progress in the competition. With constant improvements being made to elevate the league’s competitiveness, the Euroleague continues to captivate basketball fans around the world.