Euroleague crowns first team: milutinov and vezenkov shine as playoffs loom
The EuroLeague season concluded this week, and the governing body has officially named its inaugural First Team – a prestigious recognition of the league’s five standout performers.
Greek duo lead the charge
Two names immediately jumped out: Nikola Milutinov, a veteran from Olympiacos Piräus, and Sasha Vezenkov, a rising star for the same Greek powerhouse. Their inclusion signals a continued dominance from the Eastern Conference as they head into the playoffs.
But the list isn’t limited to the Mediterranean. Elijah Bryant, showcasing explosive scoring for Hapoel Tel Aviv, and Jean Montero, a surprising force for Valencia Basket, earned their spots. Adding further intrigue, Sylvain Francisco’s breakout season with Zalgiris Kaunas – a remarkable sixth-place finish – propelled him into the select group.
Notable names and rising stars
Beyond the core selections, the team boasts significant talent. We’re talking about Bryant’s dynamic transition game, Montero's underrated playmaking, Francisco’s surprising efficiency, and the established presence of Vezenkov and Milutinov. This year’s First Team represents a genuine blend of experience and emerging talent – a sign of the league’s continued evolution.
Here’s a breakdown of the key statistics:
| Player | Team | PTS | REB | AST |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sasha Vezenkov | OLY | 19.4 | 6.6 | 1.3 |
| Nikola Milutinov | OLY | 10.6 | 7.1 | 1.4 |
| Elijah Bryant | HTA | 15.9 | 5.4 | 3.4 |
| Jean Montero | VBC | 13.7 | 2.8 | 4.6 |
| Sylvain Francisco | ZAL | 16.7 | 2.8 | 6.4 |
As the EuroLeague playoffs begin, all eyes will be on these five players. Olympiacos, predictably, are the favorites, but the emergence of new contenders – particularly Valencia and Zalgiris – promises an intense and unpredictable postseason. The playoff schedule is available here. Don’t expect any easy nights for the top teams. The competition is fiercer than ever.
Ultimately, this First Team selection isn't just about individual brilliance; it's a testament to the overall quality and competitive spirit of the EuroLeague. It’s a strong indicator of what’s to come.