Caledonia Gladiators’ FIBA Europe Cup campaign comes to an end

By Alan Mezoela on November 22, 2023

The Gladiators' European campaign came to an end following 59-78 defeat at the hand of Surne Bilbao on Wedbesday evening.

Caledonia Gladiators’ European campaign came to an end following a 59-78 defeat at the hand of Surne Bilbao on Wednesday evening.

Having suffered a blowout loss in their first match up, Caledonia were unable to make amends in a game that was a must-win.

They end their first ever FIBA Europe Cup campaign with a 3-3 record.

Reflecting on the game, Coach Gareth Murray and MVP Lukas Palyza expressed pride in the Gladiators’ unexpected achievements, both mentioning that “no one expected us to win a game”.

Bilbao finished top of the group with a perfect 6-0 record to qualify for the second round.

Following a 8-16 first quarter, Bilbao were able to control the game, despite Caledonia fighting their way back to one possession at one point in the second quarter. However, Bilbao headed into halftime with a 34-26 lead.

They remained in control to keep their double digit lead and secure victory following a dominant fourth quarter.

https://twitter.com/Cal_Gladiators/status/1727435892485177373?t=mtxCoZGvpgYFho9Sg45-Bg&s=19

Lukas Palyza scored a game-high 16 points for Caledonia as Patrick Whelan added 10 points.

Kristian Kullamae had 12 points for Bilbao.

Caledonia Gladiators will now focus on the British Basketball League with a double-header against Cheshire Phoenix.

Box score.

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