The highly anticipated EuroLeague 2025-26 season calendar has been officially unveiled, setting the stage for 38 thrilling matchdays punctuated by ten demanding double-rounds. While fans eagerly await the action, the initial schedule appears to offer no gentle easing into the competition, especially for Italy`s two prominent representatives: Olimpia Milano and Virtus Bologna. Both teams are slated for a “baptism by fire,” facing immediate tests against some of Europe`s basketball titans.
Olimpia Milano: Navigating a Serbian Minefield
For Ettore Messina`s Olimpia Milano, the curtain rises on September 30th with a challenging away fixture against Crvena Zvezda in Belgrade. As if one Serbian trip wasn`t enough, they`re set to remain in the capital for an immediate follow-up on October 2nd, squaring off against city rivals Partizan. This double header in one of European basketball`s most passionate arenas is a stern test right out of the gate.
Indeed, the scheduling committee seems to have had a particular affinity for Milano`s travel itinerary, as four of their first five encounters are away games. Their long-awaited home debut at the Mediolanum Forum is scheduled for October 9th against AS Monaco, a game that will undoubtedly be circled on many calendars, particularly with the return of former Milano star Nikola Mirotic in opposition colors. Further travels beckon soon after, with clashes against Bayern Munich in Bavaria and Zalgiris Kaunas in Lithuania rounding out a truly demanding opening stretch. Such a schedule demands peak physical and mental readiness from the very first tip-off.
Virtus Bologna: A Royal Welcome and Road Warriors
Meanwhile, Virtus Bologna, under the guidance of coach Dusko Ivanovic, will kick off their EuroLeague campaign on home turf at the Paladozza. However, “home advantage” might feel somewhat relative when your opponent on September 30th is none other than defending champions Real Madrid – a true clash of titans from day one.
Following this monumental opener, Virtus will quickly hit the road. Their first away trip takes them to Valencia on October 3rd, before a visit to Paris on October 9th. The early home calendar at the Paladozza, beyond the Real Madrid blockbuster, promises further high-stakes encounters against formidable opponents like AS Monaco, Panathinaikos, Anadolu Efes, and Maccabi Tel Aviv.
Perhaps the most eagerly awaited fixture for Italian fans, the “EuroDerby” between Virtus Bologna and Olimpia Milano, is set for January 2nd, with Virtus hosting this national showdown. This match will undoubtedly be a highlight of the season, showcasing the fierce rivalry and talent concentrated within Italian basketball.
The 2025-26 EuroLeague season promises to be another thrilling chapter in European basketball history. For Olimpia Milano and Virtus Bologna, the calendar presents an immediate and significant challenge. Their ability to navigate these early, high-stakes encounters will undoubtedly set the tone for their ambitions in what is consistently one of the most competitive leagues globally. Fans should brace themselves for an intense start.
