During a week that was already crowded with high-stakes basketball, teams including Real Madrid, Unicaja, UCAM Murcia, and BAXI Manresa were preparing for Euroleague action and the FIBA Champions League. The recent earthquake that struck parts of Türkiye on Monday compelled organizers to pause and reassess the schedule. The situation prompted a pause in competition out of respect for those affected and to ensure the safety of players, staff, and fans alike. This pause affects a number of planned matchups, and the broader European basketball calendar is being reviewed with care by the governing bodies to determine the best path forward for all teams involved. [citation]
Official statements from the EuroLeague family underscored the gravity of the moment. They conveyed sincere condolences to the families of the victims and to everyone touched by the disaster, emphasizing that the tragedies in Türkiye and neighboring regions are a priority concern for the league as it contemplates the next steps. The message was clear: the immediate priority is the safety of participants and the welfare of the affected communities. [citation]
Euroleague Basketball confirmed that all matches scheduled to be played in Türkiye have been suspended as part of a coordinated response. The organization expressed its deep sadness about the events and reaffirmed its commitment to supporting those impacted while exploring options to reschedule affected fixtures. This includes evaluating available dates that minimize disruption and ensure fair competition for teams that were set to travel or host games at short notice. [citation]
The Turkish Airlines EuroLeague further noted the collective decision-making process, stressing collaboration with clubs to identify the most viable alternatives. In parallel, the EuroCup also paused a scheduled clash between Bursaspor and Bourg while the overall calendar is reassessed in light of evolving circumstances. [citation]
In related announcements, the FIBA Champions League stated that, following the devastation in Türkiye, all Champions League games involving Turkish teams in the current week would be postponed and subsequently rescheduled. The decision highlighted the league’s priority on safety, continuity plans, and the responsibility to stand with affected communities. [citation]
As the situation developed, clubs such as Unicaja were slated to host Galatasaray in a midweek matchup at José María Martín Carpena, while UCAM Murcia and BAXI Manresa were preparing to travel to Türkiye for battles against Darüşşafaka and Bahçeşehir, respectively. The unfolding developments underscored the delicate balance between competitive integrity and compassionate response in international sports, where the well-being of players, staff, and fans takes precedence over the immediate schedule and results. [citation]