Transcript with Hughie on 2025/10/9 00:15:10
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2025-11-17 16:01
As a longtime basketball analyst who has followed European leagues for over a decade, I’ve always found Valencia Basket one of the most intriguing teams to watch. Their roster construction often reflects a blend of youthful talent and experienced veterans, and this season is no exception. With the extended playoff phase looming, the team’s composition becomes even more critical—not just for surviving the regular season, but for making a deep run when it truly counts. Because of the extended playoff phase, all these teams have to do is aim for a solid position in the elimination phase and take it from there. That’s exactly what Valencia seems to be building toward, and today, I want to walk you through their current roster, highlighting key players and sharing my perspective on how this group can compete at the highest level.
Let’s start with the backcourt, where Valencia boasts some serious firepower. At point guard, you have the experienced duo of Sam Van Rossom and Guillem Ferrando. Van Rossom, now in his late 30s, brings a calming presence and incredible basketball IQ—something I’ve admired since his early days. He might not be the quickest guy on the court anymore, but his decision-making in pick-and-roll situations is still top-notch. Ferrando, on the other hand, offers youthful energy and has shown flashes of brilliance in domestic games. Then there’s Klemen Prepelič, a player I’ve always had a soft spot for. The Slovenian shooting guard is a walking highlight reel, capable of dropping 20 points on any given night. Last season, he averaged around 12.5 points per game in the EuroCup, and I expect that number to climb as he gets more minutes in critical moments. His three-point shooting, hovering near 38%, will be vital in spacing the floor during those elimination games.
Moving to the wings, Valencia’s depth really shines. Bojan Dubljević, the Montenegrin power forward, is the heart of this team. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve seen him take over games with his post moves and outside shooting. At 32 years old, he’s not as explosive as he once was, but his fundamentals are impeccable—imagine a crafty veteran who knows every trick in the book. Alongside him, Jasiel Rivero brings athleticism and rebounding prowess. Rivero’s stats from last season—say, roughly 8 rebounds per game in the ACB—might not blow you away, but his impact goes beyond numbers. He’s the kind of player who thrives in high-pressure situations, and I wouldn’t be surprised if he becomes a key piece in the playoffs. Then there’s Xabi López-Arostegui, a Spanish forward who embodies versatility. He can defend multiple positions and knock down open threes, making him a perfect fit for modern basketball. Personally, I think he’s underrated and could be a breakout star this year.
In the frontcourt, Valencia has made some smart additions. James Webb III, for instance, joined the team this offseason and already looks like a steal. His ability to stretch the floor as a big man—shooting around 36% from deep last year—adds a new dimension to their offense. I remember watching him in the G-League and thinking he’d excel in Europe, and so far, he’s proving me right. Alongside him, Mike Tobey provides size and interior defense. At 7 feet tall, he’s a traditional center who can alter shots and grab boards, though I’ll admit I sometimes wish he had a more consistent mid-range game. Still, in a league where physicality matters, his presence is invaluable. Rounding out the big men is Victor Claver, a veteran who’s been with Valencia through thick and thin. Claver’s leadership is something you can’t quantify, but it’s palpable on the court. He’s the glue guy who makes everyone better, and in my opinion, that’s why he’ll play crucial minutes down the stretch.
Now, let’s talk about the coaching and strategy. Head coach Álex Mumbrú has done a fantastic job blending these pieces into a cohesive unit. I’ve followed his career since his playing days, and his offensive schemes are among the most creative in Europe. He emphasizes ball movement and defensive intensity, which aligns perfectly with the roster’s strengths. For example, in their recent friendly matches, Valencia averaged over 15 assists per game—a testament to unselfish play. But here’s where the extended playoff phase comes into play. Because of the longer format, teams can’t afford to peak too early. Valencia’s depth allows Mumbrú to manage minutes and keep players fresh, which I believe gives them an edge. If they can secure a top-4 spot heading into the elimination rounds, they’ll be a nightmare matchup for anyone.
Of course, no roster is perfect, and Valencia has its weaknesses. Their three-point defense has been inconsistent at times, and against elite shooting teams, that could be a problem. I recall a game last season where they allowed 14 threes in a single outing—a stat that needs improvement. Also, while their backcourt is talented, they lack a true superstar who can create his own shot in isolation. Prepelič is close, but he’s more of a scorer than a playmaker. That said, I’m optimistic because their collective effort often makes up for individual limitations. In the elimination phase, teamwork trumps star power, and Valencia has that in spades.
Looking ahead, I predict Valencia will finish in the top half of the standings, maybe around 5th or 6th, but with potential to climb higher if key players stay healthy. Players like Dubljević and Van Rossom have been through countless battles, and their experience will be invaluable in tight games. Personally, I’d love to see them make a deep playoff run—it’s been a few years since they’ve lifted a major trophy, and this group has the chemistry to do it. So, as the season unfolds, keep an eye on this roster. They’re built for the long haul, and with the right momentum, they could surprise a lot of people.
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