Olimpia Milano and Virtus Bologna target EuroLeague playoffs

Italian basketball clubs Olimpia Milano and Virtus Bologna are preparing for the 2026-2027 EuroLeague season with the primary goal of reaching the playoffs. Both teams are seeking to overcome recent years of disappointment in European competition.

Olimpia Milano enters the season following a recent Italian Supercup victory. Under head coach Peppe Poeta, the roster has undergone changes, moving away from individual stars like Armoni Brooks and Shavon Shields to focus on a more collective approach. Key additions include Moses Wright and Garrison Mathews, joining established players such as Alec Peters, Devon Hall, and Marko Guduric. Despite the strengthened roster, analysts note a potential lack of a dedicated playmaker to manage the game.

Virtus Bologna is undergoing a more radical transformation. Following a difficult previous season, the club has implemented a total rebuild, including a change in coaching to Alex Mumbrú. The team faces the challenge of establishing cohesion quickly after losing several key players and locker room leaders, such as Alessandro Pajola.