Guillem Arcos and Osvaldas Matulionis have been confirmed as the captains of HLA Alicante for the upcoming season, a decision announced by the Lucentian foundation this Saturday. Their selections mark a deliberate step for the club as it faces the LEB Oro campaign, aiming to elevate its performance after missing the promotion playoffs last year. Arcos, a product of the Alicante academy, has grown through the ranks to become a central figure for the first team and a dependable point of reference for players across the club’s youth and development squads. His progression began at a young age, and he remains a symbol of continuity and leadership for a program that prioritizes homegrown talent alongside its senior squad. He became the youngest player to debut for Lugo at 16 years and 40 days in a match against Basket Navarra at Pedro Ferrándiz, an early milestone that has helped shape his mature approach to the game and his responsibilities within the group.
Matulionis has consistently demonstrated his commitment to HLA Alicante, turning in a full season with appearances in every game. The Lithuanian forward is widely regarded as one of the standout players in the domestic league, bringing a blend of technical skill, relentless work rate, and seasoned experience. Over seven seasons in the category, he has accumulated more than 200 appearances in LEB Oro, a track record that provides the team with stability and leadership on and off the court. His presence is poised to influence the locker room by setting high standards in training, encouraging professional habits, and sharing a practical understanding of how to navigate the season’s demanding schedule.
Both captains face the challenge of following in the footsteps of a club legend, with Pedro Llompart’s era drawing to a close ahead of the 2022/23 season. The leadership transition is already shaping the team’s mindset as it prepares for the preseason and the grind of competitive play. Preparations are underway for a decisive series of warm-up matches, kicking off in the town of Alfaz del Pi with a friendly against Iceland’s Keflavik in what is scheduled as Season 9. The aim is to build team chemistry, test tactical setups, and identify adjustments needed before the official campaign begins. The coaching staff will rely on Arcos and Matulionis to model the ethos of the club—discipline, resilience, and a shared commitment to growth—while integrating the rest of the squad into a cohesive unit.
The preseason schedule, already outlined by the club, includes a set of tests across several venues. Llíria will host the opening phase on September 16, followed by matches in Palma on September 18, Cartagena on September 22, and TAU Castelló on September 25. The final preparation game is slated for the Pedro Ferrándiz pavilion, signaling the return to the home base as the team irons out tactics and group dynamics. Looking ahead, Rafa Monclova’s squad is set to travel for the season’s official opener, with an away game at Cantabria on October 8 that will commence a campaign built on effort, unity, and a clear ambition to compete for promotion this year.