As a longtime basketball analyst who has followed European leagues for over a decade, I’ve always been fascinated by how teams like Valencia Basket manage their rosters through the grueling ACB and EuroLeague schedules. This season, the team’s composition strikes me as particularly well-suited for the challenges ahead—especially when you consider how the extended playoff format changes their priorities. Honestly, I think their depth is going to be the real game-changer. Because of the extended playoff phase, all these teams have to do is to aim for a solid position in the elimination phase and take it from there. That’s not just a generic piece of advice; it’s a strategic reality that shapes everything from player rotations to mid-season signings.

Let’s start with the backcourt, where Valencia boasts a mix of youth and experience that I find really compelling. At point guard, you have the veteran leadership of someone like Sam Van Rossom—though at 36, his minutes might be managed carefully. I’ve watched him control the tempo in close games, and his 8.2 points and 4.5 assists per game last season don’t even tell the full story. Then there’s the explosive Chris Jones, who brings a different energy. I remember one game where he dropped 22 points in just 24 minutes off the bench—that kind of spark is priceless when you’re fighting for playoff positioning. And let’s not forget Klemen Prepelič; his three-point shooting (around 41% last year) stretches defenses in ways that open up the paint for others. In my view, this backcourt trio offers the versatility needed to adapt to different playoff opponents, something that’s often overlooked until it’s too late.

Moving to the wings, Valencia’s options are where I see the biggest potential for growth. Xabi López-Arostegui has developed into a reliable two-way player, and I’d argue he’s one of the most underrated defenders in the league. His length and anticipation led to 1.3 steals per game last season, which might not sound huge, but it’s the timing that counts. Then there’s the athleticism of Victor Claver—a player I’ve followed since his early days. At 34, he’s lost a step, but his basketball IQ is off the charts. I’ve seen him make passes that younger players wouldn’t even attempt. And let’s talk about Martin Hermannsson; when healthy, he’s a creative force who can play multiple positions. Personally, I think his return from injury could be the X-factor if Valencia makes a deep playoff run.

Now, the frontcourt is where things get really interesting for me. Bojan Dubljević has been the heart of this team for years, and his consistency is just remarkable. He averaged 10.5 points and 5.8 rebounds last season, but it’s his leadership in the locker room that stands out. I’ve spoken to players who say his presence alone lifts the team’s morale. Alongside him, Jasiel Rivero brings a different dimension with his athleticism and finishing around the rim. I recall a game where he shot 7-for-9 from the field—efficiency like that is gold in playoff scenarios. And then there’s the young talent like Millán Jiménez; I’m excited to see how he develops with more minutes. In my experience, having a mix of veterans and hungry youngsters in the frontcourt pays dividends when fatigue sets in during those long playoff series.

When I step back and look at this roster, it’s clear that Valencia has built a team that can handle the marathon of a season. With around 14 players seeing regular rotation minutes, they have the depth to absorb injuries or slumps without missing a beat. That’s crucial because, as I’ve seen time and again, the extended playoff phase rewards teams that peak at the right moment. Valencia’s key players—like Van Rossom, Dubljević, and Jones—each bring something unique, but it’s their collective chemistry that impresses me most. I’ve watched them execute in clutch moments, and it’s that kind of cohesion that separates good teams from great ones.

So, what’s my takeaway? This Valencia squad isn’t just built to qualify for the playoffs; they’re built to make noise once they get there. With a balanced roster and strategic flexibility, they’re poised to secure a solid position and then unleash their full potential. As someone who’s followed this team for years, I’m genuinely optimistic about what they can achieve. The journey will be tough, but if they stay healthy and focused, I wouldn’t be surprised to see them challenging for titles when it matters most.