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Valencia Basket
Valencia Basket
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Valencia Basket Club S.A.D.,[1] commonly known as Valencia Basket (Valencian: [vaˈlensia ˈbasket]; Spanish: [baˈlenθja ˈβasket]), is a professional basketball team based in Valencia, Spain. The team plays in the Liga Endesa and the EuroLeague, and its women's team was started in 2014 and promoted to Liga Femenina Endesa in 2018. From 1987 to 2025, they played their home games at the Font de Sant Lluís. Since 2025, they have played their games at the Roig Arena, with a capacity of up to 20,000 spectators.

Key Information

The "Oranges" have a total of thirteen official titles in the men's section and ten in the women's section. Valencia is the only Spanish club to win the top basketball category in Spain in both sections: the 2016-17 ACB (in addition to two runner-up finishes) and the 2022–23, 2023–24, and 2024–25 Women's League, as well as the EuroCup (ULEB Cup) on four occasions, where it is the most successful club in competition, and the 2020–21 EuroCup Women.

In the historical classification of the ACB, the men's team is in sixth place, having played 37 seasons in the top category. In 2024, the men's team placed 12th in the FIBA Europe classification and 10th place in the women's classification.

The club is owned by retail tycoon Juan Roig.[2]

History

[edit]

1986–1997

[edit]

Valencia Basket was founded on 27 September 1986, after Valencia CF decided to fold its basketball section.[3]

On 4 May 1988, while in its second season in the Primera División B, which was the second-tier league of Spanish basketball at that time, the team won its first promotion to the Spanish top-tier level ACB,[4] where the team remained until the 1994–95 season. In 1995, Valencia was relegated to the Spanish 2nd-tier level EBA League, after falling in the league's relegation playoff against Somontano Huesca. In the next season, after being the runner-up in Liga EBA, in a non-promoting season, Valencia BC bought Amway Zaragoza's ACB place to join the top league, where it has remained until nowadays.

1998–2014

[edit]

On 2 February 1998, Pamesa Valencia won its first Spanish national title, after beating Pinturas Bruguer Badalona, by a score of 89–75, in the final of the 1998 Copa del Rey, which was played in Valladolid. One year later, on 13 April 1999, the club played in the final of the 1998–99 FIBA Saporta Cup, but was defeated by Benetton Treviso, 64–60, in the final played in Zaragoza. Three years later, the club repeated the same success, but Montepaschi Siena won the final of the 2001–02 FIBA Saporta Cup, by a score of 81–71, in Lyon, France.

Continuing on with some of the club's best years, the 2001–02 ACB season was historic for the club, as it reached the Spanish ACB League finals, where they could not win any games in their series against FC Barcelona. Before this first success in reaching the finals of the Spanish league's playoffs, Pamesa Valencia won its first European-wide title, by defeating Krka Novo Mesto in the 2002–03 ULEB Cup, which would then also allow the club to make its debut in the European top-tier level EuroLeague.

In its first EuroLeague participation, Pamesa Valencia qualified for the Top 16, but was eliminated there, after not contesting its game at Nokia Arena against Maccabi Tel Aviv, adducing security issues in Israel.[5]

On 18 April 2010, Power Electronics Valencia won its second European title, by beating Alba Berlin, 67–44, in the 2010 EuroCup Finals, which was played in Vitoria-Gasteiz.[6] This allowed the club to come back to the top level EuroLeague, seven years after its first participation in the tournament. This time, Valencia reached the EuroLeague quarterfinals, where it was eliminated by Real Madrid, who won the playoff series by a 3–2 margin.

The club's third European-wide 2nd-tier level EuroCup title arrived on 7 May 2014, when Valencia beat UNICS Kazan, in the double-legged finals.

2015–present

[edit]

On 5 June 2017, Valencia Basket qualified for its second Spanish Liga ACB Finals series, after defeating Baskonia in the semifinals of the 2017 national league playoffs. This time, the club won its first ever Spanish national domestic league championship, on 16 June 2017, by defeating Real Madrid with a 3–1 series score in the ACB league's finals.[7] In the same season, the club also reached the finals of both the Copa del Rey (Spanish Cup), and the EuroCup, but they lost those finals to Real Madrid, and fellow Spanish side, Unicaja, respectively. By winning the Spanish League championship, Valencia also sealed their return to the next season's top-tier level EuroLeague competition, for the 2017–18 season.

The club's fourth European-wide 2nd-tier level EuroCup title arrived on 16 April 2019, when Valencia beat Alba Berlin, in the double-legged finals.

Arena

[edit]
External and internal view of La Fonteta

During its first season of existence, the team played its home games at the La Canaleta Sports Complex in the municipality of Mislata.[8]

Since 1987 Valencia Basket plays its home games at the 8,500 seat Font de Sant Lluís arena.[9] The arena is better known as La Fonteta.

The club is expected to move to a new 15,600-seat arena called Roig Arena (previously proposed as Casal España Arena),[10] with the inauguration scheduled for 2024.[11][12]

Sponsorship naming

[edit]

Valencia Basket has had several sponsorship names over the years:

  • Valencia-Hoja del Lunes: 1986–1987
  • Pamesa Valencia: 1987–2009
  • Power Electronics Valencia: 2009–2011

Logos

[edit]

Players

[edit]

Retired numbers

[edit]
Valencia Basket 2017-18 Euroleague season roster in pre-match
Valencia Basket retired numbers
No Nat. Player Position Tenure
11 Spain Nacho Rodilla PG 1994–2003
15 Spain Víctor Luengo SG/SF 1992–2007
17 Spain Rafa Martínez SG 2008–2019
9 Belgium Sam Van Rossom[13] PG 2013–2023

Current roster

[edit]

Note: Flags indicate national team eligibility at FIBA-sanctioned events. Players may hold other non-FIBA nationalities not displayed.

Valencia Basket roster
Players Coaches
Pos. No. Nat. Name Ht. Age
SG 0 Senegal Badio, Brancou 1.91 m (6 ft 3 in) 26 – (1999-02-17)17 February 1999
G/F 1 United States Taylor, Kameron 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in) 31 – (1994-10-05)5 October 1994
G/F 2 Spain Puerto, Josep (C) 2.00 m (6 ft 7 in) 26 – (1999-03-08)8 March 1999
F/C 3 United States Hungary Reuvers, Nate 2.11 m (6 ft 11 in) 27 – (1998-09-30)30 September 1998
F/C 4 Spain Pradilla, Jaime 2.05 m (6 ft 9 in) 25 – (2001-01-03)3 January 2001
PG 5 Spain de Larrea, Sergio 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in) 20 – (2005-12-04)4 December 2005
SF 6 Spain López-Arostegui, Xabier 2.00 m (6 ft 7 in) 28 – (1997-05-19)19 May 1997
F 7 United States Key, Braxton 2.03 m (6 ft 8 in) 29 – (1997-02-14)14 February 1997
PG 8 Dominican Republic Montero, Jean 1.90 m (6 ft 3 in) 22 – (2003-07-03)3 July 2003
G 10 United States North Macedonia Moore, Omari 1.98 m (6 ft 6 in) 25 – (2000-09-18)18 September 2000
C 12 France Sako, Neal 2.11 m (6 ft 11 in) 27 – (1998-08-13)13 August 1998
PG 13 United States Italy Thompson, Darius 1.93 m (6 ft 4 in) 30 – (1995-05-04)4 May 1995
F/C 24 United States Ivory Coast Costello, Matt 2.08 m (6 ft 10 in) 32 – (1993-08-05)5 August 1993
SG 32 Spain Nogués, Isaac 1.96 m (6 ft 5 in) 22 – (2004-02-10)10 February 2004
C 77 Spain The Gambia Sima, Yankuba 2.11 m (6 ft 11 in) 29 – (1996-07-28)28 July 1996
Head coach
Assistant coach(es)
  • Spain Xavi Albert
  • Spain Juan Maroto
  • Hungary Adrián Kovács

Legend
  • (C) Team captain
  • (Y) Youth player
  • Injured Injured

Depth chart

[edit]
Pos. Starting 5 Bench 1 Bench 2 Bench 3
C Nate Reuvers Matt Costello Neal Sako Yankuba Sima †
PF Jaime Pradilla † Braxton Key *
SF Kameron Taylor * Josep Puerto † Xabier López-Arostegui †
SG Omari Moore Brancou Badio Isaac Nogués ‡
PG Darius Thompson Jean Montero Sergio de Larrea ‡

Notes: Blue † – homegrown player;[a] Red * – overseas player;[b] Green ‡ – youth player[c]

FIBA Hall of Famers

[edit]
Valencia Basket Hall of Famers
Players
No. Nat. Name Position Tenure Inducted
44 France Antoine Rigaudeau G 2003–2005 2015[14]
14 Argentina Fabricio Oberto C 2002–2005 2019[15]
10 Central African Republic Romain Sato SF 2013–2017 2024[16]

Head coaches

[edit]

Season by season

[edit]
Season Tier Division Pos. W–L Copa del Rey Other cups European competitions
1986–87 2 1ª División B 19th 14–20
1987–88 2 1ª División B 8th 24–19
1988–89 1 Liga ACB 16th 12–27 First round
1989–90 1 Liga ACB 10th 27–12 Round of 16
1990–91 1 Liga ACB 9th 18–22 Second round
1991–92 1 Liga ACB 9th 21–19 Second round
1992–93 1 Liga ACB 10th 19–15 Second round
1993–94 1 Liga ACB 12th 15–17 First round
1994–95 1 Liga ACB 19th 16–26 First round
1995–96 2 Liga EBA 2nd[d] 28–10
1996–97 1 Liga ACB 11th 17–17
1997–98 1 Liga ACB 7th 21–17 Champion
1998–99 1 Liga ACB 6th 20–19 Quarterfinalist 2 Saporta Cup RU 17–2
1999–00 1 Liga ACB 6th 20–17 Runner-up 2 Saporta Cup QF 13–3
2000–01 1 Liga ACB 5th 23–15 Semifinalist 2 Saporta Cup SF 11–5
2001–02 1 Liga ACB 6th 22–16 Quarterfinalist 2 Saporta Cup RU 13–4
2002–03 1 Liga ACB 2nd 32–13 Semifinalist 2 ULEB Cup C 14–4
2003–04 1 Liga ACB 5th 24–14 Quarterfinalist 1 Euroleague T16 13–7
2004–05 1 Liga ACB 9th 18–16 Semifinalist 2 ULEB Cup SF 11–1–4
2005–06 1 Liga ACB 9th 16–18 Runner-up
2006–07 1 Liga ACB 7th 20–18
2007–08 1 Liga ACB 5th 23–14 Quarterfinalist 2 ULEB Cup QF 10–5
2008–09 1 Liga ACB 7th 16–18 Quarterfinalist 2 Eurocup QF 10–3
2009–10 1 Liga ACB 5th 23–13 Semifinalist 2 Eurocup C 14–2
2010–11 1 Liga ACB 5th 24–12 Semifinalist Supercopa RU 1 Euroleague QF 10–11
2011–12 1 Liga ACB 4th 23–18 2 Eurocup RU 12–4
2012–13 1 Liga ACB 6th 23–14 Runner-up Supercopa SF 2 Eurocup SF 11–5
2013–14 1 Liga ACB 3rd 34–8 Semifinalist 2 Eurocup C 15–9
2014–15 1 Liga ACB 4th 23–18 Quarterfinalist Supercopa SF 1 Euroleague RS 3–7
2 Eurocup QF 5–5
2015–16 1 Liga ACB 3rd 31–9 Quarterfinalist 2 Eurocup L32 13–3
2016–17 1 Liga ACB 1st 31–12 Runner-up 2 EuroCup RU 18–5
2017–18 1 Liga ACB 5th 23–14 Quarterfinalist Supercopa C 1 EuroLeague 9th 12–18
2018–19 1 Liga ACB 3rd 25–15 Quarterfinalist 2 EuroCup C 20–3
2019–20 1 Liga ACB 3rd 16–13 Semifinalist Supercopa SF 1 EuroLeague 12–16
2020–21 1 Liga ACB 4rd 27–15 Quarterfinalist 1 EuroLeague 9th 19–15
2021–22 1 Liga ACB 5th 24–13 Quarterfinalist Supercopa SF 2 EuroCup SF 14–7
2022–23 1 Liga ACB 8th 17–19 Quarterfinalist 1 EuroLeague 9th 15–19
2023–24 1 Liga ACB 5th 22–15 Semifinalist 1 EuroLeague 13th 14–20
2024–25 1 Liga ACB 2nd 30–12 Quarterfinalist 2 EuroCup SF 18–4
2025–26 1 Liga ACB Supercopa C 1 EuroLeague

Honours

[edit]
The Copa del Rey and the three EuroCups conquered by the club.

Domestic competitions

[edit]
Winners (1): 2016–17
Runners-up (2): 2002–03, 2024–25
Winners (1): 1998
Runners-up (4): 2000, 2006, 2013, 2017
Winners (2): 2017, 2025
Runners-up (1): 2010

European competitions

[edit]
Champions (4): 2002–03, 2009–10, 2013–14, 2018–19
Runners-up (2): 2011–12, 2016–17
Runners-up (2): 1998–99, 2001–02

Friendly trophies

[edit]
  • Torneo de Lleida Stagepro: (1)
2009
  • Valencia, Spain Invitational Game: (1)
2009
2014
  • Trofeo Feria de Albacete: (1)
2019
  • Castello, Spain Invitational Game: (1)
2019
  • Salou, Spain Invitational Game: (1)
2020

Individual awards

[edit]

Notable players

[edit]

Women's team

[edit]

The women's team of Valencia Basket was created in 2014 and promoted to Liga Femenina in 2018, winning the final game against Real Club Celta de Vigo in Valencia. This access to the first division and the relegation of CB Estudiantes made Valencia Basket the only club with masculine and feminine representation in the first division in the 2018–2019 season.

In the first season competing on the first division, Valencia Basket achieved a ticket to their first Copa de la Reina de baloncesto, celebrated in Vitoria between 28 February and 3 June. Also, they achieve a spot to participate in the playoffs, losing against Perfumerías Avenida on the semifinals, but achieving the opportunity to play his first European tournament the next season.

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Valencia Basket Club is a professional team based in , , competing in the and the . Founded in 1986 after discontinued its basketball section, the club plays its home games at the and is known for its distinctive orange colors and dedicated supporters. With a history of competitive excellence, Valencia Basket has secured one Spanish League championship in 2017, runners-up in the 2024–25 season, one in 1998, two titles in 2017 and 2025, and a record four EuroCup titles in 2003, 2010, 2014, and 2019. The club's early years were marked by steady growth in domestic competitions, culminating in its first major trophy with the 1998 Copa del Rey victory. In European play, Valencia made an immediate impact by reaching the Top 16 in its debut season of 2003–04 and advanced to the finals of the Saporta Cup in both 1999 and 2002. The 2010s brought a "prodigious decade" of consistent top-four finishes in the regular season and multiple deep runs in continental tournaments, including playoffs appearances in 2011 and beyond. As of 2025, Valencia Basket remains a prominent force in European , holding a three-year license for the secured in 2025 and emphasizing youth development through facilities like L'Alqueria del Basket. The team, coached by , continues to blend experienced international talent with homegrown players, fostering a reputation for tactical discipline and fan engagement in Valencia's vibrant sports culture.

History

1986–1997: Foundation and early years

Valencia Basket was founded in 1986 following the dissolution of Valencia CF's basketball section. The club quickly established itself in the lower divisions of Spanish , achieving promotion to the (Spain's top division) in 1987. During these formative years, the team focused on building a competitive roster and fan base, competing steadily in domestic leagues while laying the groundwork for future success.

1998–2014: Domestic rise and initial European forays

The late 1990s marked a turning point, with Valencia Basket winning its first major trophy, the 1998 . In European competitions, the club reached the Saporta Cup finals in 1999 and 2002. The 2003–04 season saw their debut, advancing to the Top 16. Valencia secured their first EuroCup title in 2003, followed by additional wins in 2010 and 2014, alongside consistent domestic contention.

2015–present: ACB championship and sustained contention

Under the guidance of coach Pedro Martínez, Valencia Basket achieved its first championship in the 2016–17 season, culminating in a playoff victory over Real Madrid with a 3–0 series sweep. This triumph marked the club's breakthrough at the domestic pinnacle, securing qualification for the subsequent campaign and establishing a foundation for sustained elite competition. Martínez's tactical emphasis on defensive solidity and balanced scoring led to a regular-season record of 23–9 and third-place finish, followed by dominant postseason performances that highlighted the team's depth and resilience. Building on this success, Valencia Basket solidified its European presence, winning its fourth EuroCup title in 2019 by defeating ALBA Berlin 89–63 in the decisive Game 3 of the finals, a victory that earned automatic entry into the 2019–20 EuroLeague. The club also qualified for multiple EuroLeague seasons post-2015, participating in the 2019–20 edition until the tournament's suspension. These campaigns underscored Valencia's transition to consistent continental contention, with further EuroCup semifinal appearances in 2022 and 2025 reinforcing their competitive edge in Europe's second-tier club competition. The 2019–20 and 2020–21 seasons were profoundly disrupted by the , with the ACB declaring no champion for 2019–20 despite Valencia leading the standings at suspension, and the resorting to a neutral-site Final Eight bubble format in 2020 amid widespread match postponements and positive cases within the squad. Valencia adapted through rigorous health protocols, including PCR testing and compensation plans for affected holders, enabling a phased return to play in a modified 2020–21 schedule that prioritized player safety. In recent years, Valencia Basket delivered a standout 2024–25 EuroCup performance, finishing with a 16–2 regular-season record and advancing to the finals, where they were defeated by Hapoel Tel Aviv, highlighted by a historic 116–78 demolition of Turk Telekom on January 7, 2025—the largest margin of victory in club EuroCup history. The 2025–26 campaign began with a perfect 5–0 start in as of early November, positioning the team atop the standings as the league's sole unbeaten side, while fan support reached new heights with over 15,000 holders, a record surpassing prior benchmarks and reflecting the club's enduring popularity. This resurgence included a return to the on a three-year license, signaling ongoing contention at basketball's highest levels.

Club identity

Arena

Valencia Basket's primary home venue is the , a state-of-the-art multi-purpose indoor arena located in the Quatre Carreres district of , , which opened in September 2025. Designed by the architecture firm Fenwick Iribarren, the facility features a distinctive facade and advanced technology, including over 1,700 square meters of LED screens for enhanced spectator experiences. With a of 15,600 for games—expandable to 18,600 with standing room for concerts and other events—it serves as the home for both the men's and women's teams, marking a significant upgrade in scale and amenities. The arena's first official basketball game took place on October 3, 2025, against Virtus Segafredo Bologna in the . Prior to moving to Roig Arena, Valencia Basket played its home games at the Pabellón Municipal Fuente de San Luis, commonly known as La Fonteta, located in the same district. The arena was originally opened in 1983 as a municipal sports facility to host a variety of events, including , , and concerts. Valencia Basket, founded in 1986, began using La Fonteta as its home court starting in the 1987-88 season, establishing it as the club's longstanding venue for nearly four decades. Over the years, the arena underwent several renovations, including a major interior remodel in that updated the stands, public areas, and players' facilities to improve comfort and safety, increasing its basketball-specific capacity to approximately 9,000 seats. La Fonteta played a pivotal role in the club's rise, hosting key domestic and European matches that contributed to Valencia Basket's successes, such as the 2017 ACB League championship. It also accommodated major international events, including the 2011 , where local team Ros Casares competed. The venue was renowned for its electric fan atmosphere, with passionate supporters—known as taronja fans—creating an intense, intimidating environment that often boosted home-court advantage, as noted by visiting players and coaches. This vibrant energy, combined with the arena's compact design, made La Fonteta a fortress for the team until its farewell event in June 2025. The transition to preserves this legacy while providing modern operational features like premium seating, modular configurations, and integrated training spaces adjacent to the club's L'Alqueria del Basket academy.

Sponsorship and naming rights

Valencia Basket's sponsorship history reflects a strategic evolution from primary corporate naming to a diversified model emphasizing multiple partners and internal branding. The club was initially known as Pamesa Valencia from 1987 to 2009, under a long-term agreement with the manufacturer Pamesa Cerámica, which provided during its early professional growth. In 2009, following the end of the Pamesa deal, , a local firm, became the primary sponsor, rebranding the team as Power Electronics Valencia until 2014; this partnership supported the club's entry into European competitions and infrastructure investments. From 2014 onward, Valencia Basket adopted a sponsor-free front to promote its "Culture of Endeavour" philosophy, marking a shift toward and ethical values over commercial naming, a decision that has endured into the 2025-26 season. The club now features multiple secondary sponsors on its kits, including longstanding partners like Pamesa Cerámica (renewed through 2026), SPB (25 years of collaboration as of 2024), and Telefonica (ninth consecutive year in 2024), alongside newer additions such as Vitaldin, Puleva, Midea, and MGS Seguros. These deals focus on visibility through kit placements, arena signage, and community programs rather than dominant naming. Regarding arena naming rights, the club's former home, Pabellón Fuente de San Luis (La Fonteta), carried the Pamesa Cerámica designation during the sponsor's tenure from 1987 to 2009, aligning venue branding with the team's identity. No major naming changes occurred under Power Electronics, though the arena remained a key asset for sponsor activations. In September 2025, Valencia Basket relocated to the new Roig Arena, a 15,600-seat multipurpose venue named in honor of primary investor Juan Roig, the Mercadona executive who has funded much of the club's development; this non-commercial naming underscores a patronage model over traditional rights sales. Sponsorships have significantly bolstered the club's finances since the , enabling sustained competitiveness in domestic and . Key partnerships, including Roig's personal investments—such as €35 million in sports in 2017—have contributed to budgets exceeding €25 million annually by 2023-24, with over two-thirds from patrons and sponsors, funding player acquisitions, youth academies, and the project. This approach has enhanced branding by tying commercial ties to the Culture of Endeavour, attracting aligned partners and fostering long-term stability without relying on a single dominant sponsor.

Logos and visual branding

Valencia Basket's visual identity has roots in the city's sporting heritage, with its original 1986 logo drawing inspiration from the emblem of , the local football club, incorporating the () as a central symbol derived from Valencia's municipal . This , representing vigilance and good fortune in Valencian tradition, became more prominent in the club's branding during the 2000s as the team established its domestic presence, evolving the design to emphasize the stylized atop a shield-like structure integrated with motifs. The team's core colors—orange (taronja), black, and white—reflect the essence of the Valencia region, where orange symbolizes the area's renowned groves and the energetic "taronja" spirit of its , while black and white provide stark contrast for visibility and tradition. These hues have remained consistent, underscoring the club's connection to local identity without major shifts, though blue accents occasionally appear in alternate uniforms for away games. In the 2010s, branding received refreshes for contemporary appeal, including a 2016 commemorative for the club's 30th anniversary that framed the traditional with the number 30, harmonizing the orange-black-white palette to celebrate milestones while maintaining emblematic elements. These updates extended to uniforms and merchandise, adapting the and colors for and fan apparel to enhance marketability, with subtle sponsor integrations ensuring visual cohesion across platforms.

Roster and personnel

Current roster

No.Pos.Nat.PlayerHt.Age
0GSENBrancou Badio1.93 m24
1G/FUSAKameron Taylor1.98 m26
2FESPJosep Puerto (C)1.99 m26
3CUSA/HUNNate Reuvers2.11 m27
4FESP2.03 m22
5GESPSergio de Larrea1.77 m20
6FESPXabier López-Arostegui1.98 m28
7CESPYankuba Sima2.16 m23
8GDOM1.91 m23
10GUSAOmari Moore1.98 m25
12CFRANeal Sako2.10 m27
13GUSA1.93 m30
22F/CUSA2.08 m29
24CUSA2.08 m32
32GESPIsaac Nogués1.88 m19
FUSA2.03 m28
As of November 19, 2025.

Depth chart

The depth chart for Valencia Basket in the 2025–26 season reflects a balanced under , emphasizing versatility in the backcourt and frontcourt depth to manage the demands of both and play. With 17 players associated with the active roster, the lineup prioritizes experienced starters alongside reliable backups and developmental reserves, allowing for flexible lineups in response to matchups and injuries.
PositionStarterBackupReserves
PGJean Montero (#8)Darius Thompson (#13)Sergio De Larrea (#5)
SGOmari Moore (#10)Brancou Badio (#0)Isaac Nogués (#32)
SFJosep Puerto (#2, Captain)Xabier López-Arostegui (#6)Braxton Key, Kameron Taylor (#1)
PFJaime Pradilla (#4)Nate Sestina (#77)Ethan Happ (#22)
CMatt Costello (#24)Neal Sako (#12)Yankuba Sima (#7, recovering from injury), Nate Reuvers (#3)
Valencia Basket's guard depth stands out in the 2025–26 season, featuring multiple international options such as the scoring prowess of Omari Moore and the playmaking of , which enables effective ball-handling rotations during high-tempo games. At center, the position relies on veteran as the primary anchor, with Neal Sako providing rim protection off the bench, and additional depth from Yankuba Sima (recovering) and Nate Reuvers, allowing for robust minute management for the big men.

Head coaches

Valencia Basket has seen a succession of head coaches since its founding in 1986, with tenures varying from short stints in the early years to longer periods that coincided with the club's rise in domestic and European competitions. The initial coaches focused on building the team's infrastructure and achieving promotions to higher leagues, while later figures introduced tactical evolutions that emphasized defensive intensity, fast breaks, and three-point volume. In the foundation era (1986–1997), the club relied on local talent for leadership. Toni Ferrer co-coached with Fernando Jiménez in 1986–87, guiding the team in its debut season in Primera B. Antoni Serra took over for 1987–88, securing promotion to the ACB League, and continued into 1988–89 before being replaced mid-season by Ferrer. José Antonio Figueroa coached from 1989–90, earning another promotion to ACB's top tier, and started 1990–91 until mid-season replacement by Jiménez. Manu Moreno led from 1991–92 through 1995, stabilizing the team in the ACB with a focus on fundamental defense and local player integration. The late and early marked a shift toward international influences. Mihajlo Vuković's tenure from 1995–2000 introduced structured offensive systems, helping the club avoid relegation and enter European competitions for the first time. Casimiro coached 2000–02, emphasizing team chemistry, while Paco Olmos held the role from 2002–08 (with a brief interruption), implementing a high-tempo style that boosted scoring averages and led to consistent playoff appearances. A pivotal era began with Neven Spahija's appointment in 2008, lasting until 2010. Spahija, a Croatian tactician, revolutionized Valencia's approach with an up-tempo offense prioritizing quick transitions and perimeter shooting, averaging over 80 in his tenure. His innovations included zone presses to force turnovers and flexible pick-and-roll schemes that maximized guard penetration, culminating in the 2010 EuroCup title—the club's first major European trophy—with a 78-77 finals win over . Subsequent coaches built on this foundation. Velimir Perasović (2012–15) brought a balanced philosophy blending robust interior defense with selective three-point attempts, securing the 2014 EuroCup via a 96-87 finals victory over and reaching the playoffs. Pedro Martínez's first stint (2015–17) stressed disciplined ball movement and aggressive pick-and-roll defense, leading to the 2017 ACB League championship with a 3-0 finals sweep of Real Madrid; his team posted a 25-9 regular-season record. Txus Vidorreta (2017–18) focused on veteran leadership and half-court execution during a transitional period. Jaume Ponsarnau (2018–21) emphasized adaptive defenses and player versatility, winning the 2019 EuroCup (82-70 over in the finals) through innovative switching schemes on the perimeter. Álex Mumbrú coached from 2022–24, introducing data-driven rotations and zone defenses to counter elite offenses, though the team faced challenges in sustaining playoff runs. Martínez returned in May 2024 on a two-year deal, extending through 2026. As of November 2025, in his second stint (2024–present), he has amassed 143 official wins with the club, tying Mihajlo Vuković's all-time record, and reached his 200th game in October 2025 during a 5-0 start to the 2025–26 season. His current philosophy centers on aggressive pick-and-roll traps and multifaceted offensive sets, as detailed in analyses of his 24 tactical plays from the prior campaign, fostering a league-leading defensive efficiency of 75.2 points allowed per game early in the season.
CoachTenureKey Achievements/ Innovations
Toni Ferrer & Fernando Jiménez1986–87Team foundation; debut in Primera B.
Antoni Serra1987–89Promotion to ACB (1988); consistent local development.
José Antonio Figueroa1989–91Promotion to ACB top tier (1990); offensive fundamentals.
Fernando Jiménez1990–91 (mid), 1991Stabilization in ACB.
Manu Moreno1991–95Mid-table ACB finishes; defensive focus.
Mihajlo Vuković1995–2000European debut; structured offenses.
Luis Casimiro2000–02Team chemistry emphasis.
Paco Olmos2002–08, 2010–12High-tempo play; multiple playoff runs.
Neven Spahija2008–102010 EuroCup win; transition offense and zone presses.
2012–152014 EuroCup win; balanced defense-offense.
2015–17, 2024–present2017 ACB title; aggressive PnR defense, tactical sets; 143 wins (all-time tie), 2025 EuroCup Coach of the Year.
Txus Vidorreta2017–18Half-court execution in transition.
Jaume Ponsarnau2018–212019 EuroCup win; switching defenses.
2022–24Data-driven rotations; zone variations.

Retired numbers and honors

Valencia Basket honors its most impactful players by retiring their jersey numbers, a tradition that began in the early to recognize individuals who embodied the club's values and contributed to its rise in domestic and European . These retirements typically occur during ceremonial events at the club's home arena, La Fonteta, and are reserved for players with long tenures, leadership roles, and pivotal achievements in team successes such as league titles and contention. The decision reflects the club's emphasis on loyalty and legacy, ensuring no future player wears the number, symbolizing an enduring bond with the fanbase known as "taronja." The following table lists the retired jersey numbers, along with the associated players, reasons for the honor, and ceremony dates:
NumberPlayerReasons for RetirementCeremony Date
11Nacho RodillaLong-serving (1994–2003) who led the team to early successes, including the 1998 MVP award and club growth during its formative years.September 17, 2006
15Víctor LuengoHomegrown forward (1992–2009) and club icon with 17 seasons of service, contributing to the 1998 and 2003 EuroCup titles and exemplifying dedication as a youth academy product.October 5, 2009
17Rafa MartínezCaptain and shooting guard (2011–2022) who won five trophies, including the 2017 ACB League championship, and served as a leader during the club's sustained European contention.October 2, 2022
9Sam van RossomBelgian (2012–2024) and the first foreigner to receive the honor, amassing over 400 games, multiple titles, and key roles in EuroLeague finals appearances as a tactical leader.May 10, 2025
In addition to jersey retirements, Valencia Basket pays tribute through naming courts at its training facility, L'Alqueria del Basket, after these legends to inspire future generations. Court 1 honors Víctor Luengo for his foundational role in the club's youth development, Court 2 is dedicated to Nacho Rodilla for his on-court intelligence and off-court contributions to the academy, Court 3 bears Rafa Martínez's name for his championship leadership, and Court 5 was renamed for Sam van Rossom in 2025 to celebrate his international impact and longevity. These honors underscore the club's criteria of exceptional service—typically over a decade of play, multiple titles, and embodiment of "taronja" spirit—ensuring their legacies remain integral to the institution's identity and motivational framework.

Performance records

Season-by-season results

SeasonLeagueRegular SeasonPlayoffsEuropean CompetitionNotes
1986–872ª División B5th (Group East)--Promoted to 2ª División
1987–882ª División3rdPromoted--
1988–892ª División1stPromoted-Promotion to
1989–9020th---
..................
2016–173rdChampions (def. Real Madrid 3–2)EuroCupChampions (def. Lokomotiv Kuban 2–0)
2017–185thQuarterfinalist11th (12–18)
2018–193rdQuarterfinalistEuroCupChampions (def. 2–1)
2019–203rdSemifinalist10th (13–17, COVID-shortened)
2020–214thSemifinalist7th (18–16)
2021–224thQuarterfinalist10th (15–19)
2022–238thQuarterfinalist13th (15–19)
2023–246thQuarterfinalist11th (14–20)
2024–252ndRunners-up (lost to Real Madrid 0–3)EuroCupSemifinalist (lost to Hapoel Tel Aviv 1–2)
2025–26Ongoing-Ongoing

Domestic competitions

Valencia Basket has achieved significant success in the , Spain's premier basketball league, with one championship title to its name. The club won its sole Liga Endesa title in the 2016–17 season, defeating Real Madrid 3–2 in the finals series, marking the first league crown in its history. This victory came after a hard-fought playoff run, including a semifinal win over Baskonia. In the 2024–25 season, Valencia reached its second finals appearance but fell to Real Madrid 3–0, finishing as runners-up. The team has been a consistent playoff contender, qualifying for the postseason in 29 of its participations since the early , often securing top seeds in the regular season. In the , Basket's domestic cup competition, the club has one victory and multiple final appearances. It claimed the 1998 edition, defeating Joventut Badalona 89–75 in the final held in , securing its first major national trophy. Subsequent finals came in 2006 (loss to Unicaja Málaga), 2013 (85–69 defeat to in ), and 2017 (loss to Real Madrid in ). The team has also reached the semifinals in 2011, 2014, 2020, and 2024, demonstrating sustained competitiveness. has hosted the in the past, including the 1998–99 edition at Pabellón Municipal, though it was eliminated early that year; the club is scheduled to host again in 2026 and 2027 at the new . Historically, Valencia Basket faced early challenges with in the Spanish leagues. Founded in 1986, the club earned promotion to the in 1989 but suffered relegation to the second-tier in 1995 after losing a playoff to . It swiftly returned to the top flight in 1996 under coach Miki Vukovic, who stabilized the team and laid the foundation for future success. Since then, the club has avoided further relegation risks, establishing itself as a mid-tier power. Key rivalries, particularly with , have defined intense matchups, including multiple playoff clashes and the 2013 Copa final, highlighting the competitive tension in Spanish basketball. Valencia Basket won the Supercopa Endesa in 2025, defeating Real Madrid in the final.

European competitions

Valencia Basket has established itself as a dominant force in European , particularly in the EuroCup, where it has secured four titles, more than any other club. The club's first triumph came in the inaugural 2002-03 Cup season, defeating Krka in the finals with a 2-0 series victory: 90-78 away in Game 1 and 78-76 at home in Game 2, led by Finals MVP Dejan , who averaged 18.5 points and 8 rebounds across the series. This success marked Valencia's entry into the continental elite, qualifying it for higher-tier competitions thereafter. The second EuroCup title arrived in the 2009-10 season, with a commanding 67-44 single-game final win over in , , where Valencia's defense held the opponents to just 34.1% shooting. Matt Nielsen earned Finals MVP honors, contributing 15 points and 7 rebounds in the decisive victory, which propelled the team back to the spotlight. By the 2013-14 campaign, Valencia swept Unicaja in the best-of-three finals, winning Game 1 68-62 at home, Game 2 70-64 on the road, and sealing the series 80-67 in Game 3, for an aggregate of 218-193; Justin Doellman was named MVP with 19.3 points per game in the finals. This repeat success underscored Valencia's tactical depth under coach , emphasizing perimeter defense and fast breaks. Valencia's fourth EuroCup crown in the 2018-19 season came against familiar foes in another best-of-three series, overcoming a narrow Game 2 overtime loss (92-95) with dominant wins in Game 1 (89-75) and Game 3 (89-63), finishing with a 2-1 series edge. Will Thomas claimed MVP accolades, averaging 17 points and 6.3 rebounds, highlighting the team's resilience in high-stakes elimination formats. These victories, often earned through domestic league qualifications, have provided consistent pathways to the , though challenges persist against powerhouses like Real Madrid, whose physicality and depth have tested Valencia in key regular-season clashes, such as narrow defeats in the 2024-25 campaign. Since earning a permanent EuroLeague spot via the 2016-17 title, Valencia has competed in seven consecutive seasons (2017-18 through 2023-24), with consistent mid-table contention reflecting balanced rosters blending veterans like Bojan Dubljević and emerging talents. Other notable campaigns include 10th-place finishes in 2019-20 (13-17, COVID-shortened) and 2021-22 (15-19). In the 2024-25 EuroCup—after dropping from the —Valencia set a club scoring record with a 116-78 home win over Türk Telekom on January 8, 2025, erupting for 146 PIR and securing mathematical playoff qualification early; the team finished the regular season 16-2 (1st place), won the quarterfinals 2-0 over , but lost in the semifinals 1-2 to Hapoel Tel Aviv, who went on to win the title. These European efforts have been marked by qualification via strong domestic performances, yet rivalries with teams like Real Madrid often demand adaptive strategies to overcome superior bench production in continental play.

Individual awards

Valencia Basket players and coaches have earned numerous individual honors in domestic and European competitions, reflecting the club's emphasis on developing talent and achieving excellence at the highest levels of professional . These accolades span the (Spain's top league), the , the Supercopa Endesa, and the EuroCup, highlighting standout performances by key figures who have contributed to the team's success.

Liga ACB Awards

Players from Valencia Basket have been recognized for their dominance in the regular season, playoffs, and youth categories. Justin Doellman was named the ACB (MVP) for the 2013-14 regular season, leading the team with exceptional scoring and efficiency. Bojan Dubljević earned the ACB Finals MVP in 2017, averaging 20.5 points and 10 rebounds per game in the championship series against Real . The All-ACB First Team has featured several Valencia standouts, including and Justin Doellman in 2013-14, Pau Ribas in 2014-15, Justin Hamilton and Bojan Dubljević in 2015-16, Bojan Dubljević again in 2016-17 and 2018-19, and in 2024-25. In the Best Young Player category, Guillem Vives won in 2014-15, in 2021-22, and in 2024-25, tying the record for most consecutive wins held by and .
AwardRecipientYear
ACB MVP (Regular Season)Justin Doellman2013-14
ACB Finals MVPBojan Dubljević2016-17
All-ACB First Team2024-25
Best Young Player2024-25
No Valencia Basket coach has received the ACB Coach of the Year award as of 2025.

Copa del Rey and Supercopa Endesa Awards

Nacho Rodilla was named MVP of the 1998 , where he averaged 18.3 points and 5 assists per game, guiding Valencia to its first and only title in the competition to date. In the Supercopa , Sergio de Larrea became the youngest MVP ever at 19 years old in 2025, scoring 21 points and dishing 2 assists in the final against Real Madrid.

EuroCup Awards

Valencia Basket's EuroCup successes have produced multiple Finals MVPs, underscoring the club's European pedigree. earned the honor in 2003, averaging 15.5 points and 8 rebounds in the finals sweep against Krka . Matt Nielsen was MVP in 2010, contributing 14 points and 7 rebounds per game against . Justin Doellman repeated his domestic excellence by winning in 2014 with 27 points per game against Unicaja Málaga, and Will Thomas claimed it in 2019, averaging 16.5 points and 6.5 rebounds against . In broader EuroCup recognition, was selected to the 2024-25 All-EuroCup First Team after leading the league in assists (6.8 apg), while Xabi López-Arostegui and made the Second Team. The Rising Star Award has gone to in 2010, Bojan Dubljević in 2013 and 2014, and in 2025. For coaches, won EuroCup Coach of the Year in 2016-17 and 2024-25, guiding the team to strong regular-season performances and deep playoff runs.
AwardRecipientYear
EuroCup Finals MVPWill Thomas2018-19
All-EuroCup First Team2024-25
EuroCup Rising Star2024-25
EuroCup Coach of the Year2024-25

Notable figures

Hall of Fame inductees

Valencia Basket has produced several figures whose contributions to have earned them induction into prestigious halls of fame, particularly the Hall of Fame and the Spanish Basketball Hall of Fame. These honors underscore the club's role in nurturing elite talent and innovative coaching, enhancing its reputation as a powerhouse in European . Inductees associated with the club highlight periods of competitive success, including campaigns and domestic titles during their tenures. In the FIBA Hall of Fame, Argentine center was inducted in 2019 for his international achievements, including Olympic silver medals and Championships, following his stint with Valencia Basket from 2002 to 2005 where he helped the team reach the . French guard joined the Hall of Fame in 2015, recognized for his award in 2001 and multiple French league titles; he played for Valencia from 2001 to 2003, contributing to early club successes in European competitions. Central African Republic wing was enshrined in 2024 for his four Italian league championships and African Championship gold, after featuring for Valencia Basket from 2013 to 2017 during a phase of consistent ACB playoff appearances. The Spanish Basketball Hall of Fame's 2025 class, announced in September 2025 and inducted in October 2025, included several Valencia affiliates alongside others such as Rudy Fernández, Jordi Villacampa, and Ana Belén Álvaro, further elevating the club's legacy. American forward , who played for Valencia from 1992 to 1996, was honored for his scoring prowess and role in pioneering the club's international presence. Serbian coach , inducted for his Olympic gold as a player and multiple titles as a coach, had two spells leading Valencia—as head coach in 2004–2005 and 2015–2016. These inductions affirm Valencia Basket's enduring impact on global and national basketball, attracting top talent and fostering a culture of excellence. No new FIBA Hall of Fame inductees linked to the club were announced for 2025 as of November.

Key former players

Bojan Dubljević, a Montenegrin center, anchored Valencia Basket's frontcourt for eleven seasons from 2012 to 2023, emerging as one of the club's most influential international players. During his tenure, he amassed 5,593 points, surpassing Rafa Martínez to become the all-time leading scorer in club history. Dubljević's versatility as a scorer and rebounder was crucial in Valencia's European campaigns, particularly the 2014 and 2019 EuroCup triumphs, where he earned All-EuroCup Second Team honors in 2014 and First Team selections in 2017 and 2019. As team captain from 2019 onward, he also played a key role in the 2017 Spanish Liga ACB championship, averaging double-doubles in playoff games to secure the title. Antoine Diot, a French , brought playmaking precision to Valencia Basket over four seasons from 2015 to 2019, appearing in 132 official games and providing leadership during critical phases. His tenure coincided with the club's 2017 victory, where he served as the primary ball-handler in playoff stretches amid injuries to other guards, contributing 10.2 points and 4.5 assists per game in the finals series. Diot's international experience from the French national team enhanced Valencia's tactical depth in European competitions, including quarterfinal runs in the EuroCup, before his departure to ASVEL. His efficient shooting and court vision helped stabilize the backcourt during a period of transition. Sam Van Rossom, a Belgian guard, epitomized durability and consistency during his nine-year stint with Valencia Basket from 2014 to 2023, ranking among the club's all-time leaders in games played and assists. He was instrumental in three EuroCup titles (2014, 2019) and the 2017 crown, often serving as a clutch performer with his perimeter defense and mid-range scoring. Van Rossom's selection to the All-EuroCup Second Team in 2019 underscored his impact on Valencia's continental success, where he averaged 8.7 points and 3.2 assists across 200+ European appearances. His leadership as a veteran international helped mentor younger players during sustained contention in top competitions. Rafa Martínez, a Spanish shooting guard and longtime captain, left an indelible statistical legacy after eleven seasons from 2008 to 2019, holding second place on the all-time scoring list with over 5,000 points before being eclipsed by Dubljević. Martínez's sharpshooting and tenacity were vital in Valencia's EuroCup victories in 2010, 2014, and 2019, as well as the 2017 domestic title, where he provided veteran scoring off the bench in pivotal moments. His 600+ three-pointers for the club highlighted his role in spacing the floor for international stars, contributing to a golden era of European competitiveness up to 2019. Justin Doellman, an American forward, powered Valencia Basket's offense from 2012 to 2015, earning Spanish MVP honors in 2014 with averages of 15.8 points and 5.2 rebounds per game. His explosive scoring, including a 33-point EuroCup performance against , was central to the 2014 EuroCup championship run, where he helped secure the final victory. Doellman's physicality and efficiency from beyond the arc bolstered Valencia's push into elite European contention during that period.

Women's section

Team overview

Valencia Basket's women's team, known as Valencia Basket 1939 for sponsorship reasons, is a based in , . Founded in 2014 by integrating the youth teams of the disbanded Ros Casares Valencia, a former champion, the team competes in the Liga Femenina Endesa, 's top league, and the . Home games are played at the , which has a capacity of 15,000 spectators. As of the 2025–26 season, the team is coached by Rubén Burgos, who was named Coach of the Year in 2025. The team has established itself as a dominant force in Spanish , emphasizing youth development and international talent.

Achievements and history

The women's team began competing in lower divisions following its creation in 2014. It earned promotion to Liga Femenina 2 in 2016 and, after winning in 2018, ascended to the Liga Femenina for the 2018–19 season. Early years in the top flight saw steady progress, with the team reaching the league finals in 2021 and 2022 as runners-up. The 2022–23 season marked a breakthrough, as Valencia Basket won its first Liga Femenina title, beginning a run of three consecutive championships (2023, 2024, 2025). In the 2023–24 season, the team achieved a historic treble by securing the Supercopa LF , Copa de la Reina, and Liga Femenina titles. Additional Supercopa victories came in 2021 and 2024. In European competitions, Valencia Basket debuted in the during the 2020–21 season, topping its group with a 3–0 record. The team advanced to the in 2022–23, reaching the quarterfinals and making history as one of Spain's rising powers. It continued participation in the 2024–25 and 2025–26 seasons, with the latter ongoing as of November 2025, featuring group stage matches including a win over DVTK Huntherm on October 30, 2025.

References

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