The outbreak of conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran is causing significant disruption to the international sports calendar, with the EuroLeague basketball season immediately affected. Several upcoming matches are facing postponement as teams grapple with travel complications and safety concerns.

Key Games Postponed

EuroLeague Basketball has officially announced the postponement of several games. This includes a match between Hapoel and Paris, previously rescheduled from an earlier date, and the highly anticipated Tel Aviv derby between Maccabi and Hapoel. The Maccabi-Hapoel derby will not seize place in Israel and may also be postponed.

“The rest of the season is at risk. Now the ball is in the court of the Euroleague.”

Shopping Mijailovic, Partizan President

Travel Chaos and Player Safety

The conflict has led to airspace closures and travel restrictions, impacting teams and players. Many foreign players from local teams are heading abroad, primarily through Jordan, until the situation stabilizes. Some players and teams have chosen to remain in the region for the time being.

Several American players from Partizan and Fenerbahçe, along with coach Sarunas Jasikevicius, were reportedly in Dubai during the break in the season and are now affected by the unfolding events. Maccabi player Lonnie Walker is currently stuck in Dubai although on vacation.

“having seen it all”

Lonnie Walker, Maccabi player

League Response and Future Outlook

EuroLeague officials are scheduled to meet this Tuesday to assess the situation and discuss potential solutions. The league, which recently underwent a change in CEO with Chus Bueno taking over from Paulius Motiejunas, is navigating a complex landscape as it seeks to maintain the integrity of the season.

The presence of three non-European teams – two from Israel and one from Dubai – adds to the challenges. Matches previously held in Israel may be suspended due to ongoing insecurity.

Impact Beyond the EuroLeague

The broader Israeli sports scene has been thrown into chaos. Both the local basketball and soccer leagues have been put on hold. The Israeli National Basketball Team played a game in Cyprus on Friday, winning 94-54, but a subsequent match was disrupted as players attempted to return to Israel.

FAQ

• What games have been postponed? The Hapoel vs. Paris game and the Maccabi Tel Aviv vs. Hapoel Tel Aviv derby have been postponed.
• Are all EuroLeague games affected? Currently, only specific games are postponed, but the situation is fluid and more disruptions are possible.
• What is being done to ensure player safety? Teams are assisting players in leaving affected areas, and travel arrangements are being adjusted.

Did you know? The 2026 AFC Women’s Asian Cup kicked off on Sunday, despite the conflict, in Australia.

The situation remains highly volatile, and further updates will be provided as they become available. The EuroLeague faces a significant challenge in navigating these unprecedented circumstances.