Ahead of the EuroLeague 2025-26 season, Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade is set to participate in an exhibition tournament in Crete, Greece. The team will face Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul on Friday, followed by a weekend match against either Olympiacos Piraeus or Olimpia Milan. Coach Ioannis Sfairopoulos conveyed his enthusiasm regarding the team's preparations and lofty goals.
Sfairopoulos expressed his excitement for the new season, stating the team's strong ambitions and commitment to achieving victories and championships. He highlighted that the team is now more agile and intends to prioritize a tenacious defensive strategy, rapid transitions, and fluid ball movement. The coach particularly stressed the importance of a multifaceted offense, aiming for diverse scoring methods both from inside and outside the arc, to avoid predictability.
The coach also lauded EuroLeague newcomer Devonte' Graham, predicting a significant impact. He noted Graham’s immediate display of talent and anticipates him performing at the level of his peak NBA years, becoming a pivotal player for the team. Regarding leadership, Sfairopoulos appointed Ognjen Dobric and Dejan Davidovac as captains, recognizing their deep roots and understanding of Crvena Zvezda's values, seeing them as ideal figures to guide the squad.
This proactive approach to preparation and the strategic emphasis on both offensive versatility and defensive intensity are commendable. The integration of experienced talent like Devonte' Graham, alongside the leadership of long-serving players, demonstrates a well-rounded strategy aimed at fostering success and team cohesion. It reflects a positive outlook for the upcoming season, embodying the spirit of continuous improvement and the pursuit of excellence in sports.
