As we approach the end of the year, it’s hard to believe Round 14 of the EuroLeague season is already history. Yet, the Final Four destination remains sort of a mystery. Rumors are swirling, as always—some grounded in truth, others pure speculation. After my visit to Belgrade earlier this season, I have a gut feeling about where it might be, but before diving into that, I want to reflect on my experiences as an avid EuroLeague Final Four traveler since 2017. I'll rank the destinations I’ve been to and share my hopes for the next Final Four experience.
Setting the Stage: What Makes This Season Special
For those unfamiliar, this is the 25th anniversary of the Turkish Airlines EuroLeague—the pinnacle of European club basketball. To mark the occasion, the league has been putting an incredible effort this season all over the social media and on TV with new concepts. EuroLeague enthusiasts like me are thrilled, not just about the season’s storylines but also about the anticipation of the Final Four venue announcement.
I’m already checking out accommodation options for the rumored destinations (yes, I’m that excited). Let’s dive into my EuroLeague Final Four experiences and rank them!
Ranking the EuroLeague Final Four Destinations (2017–2024)
2017: Istanbul, Türkiye
Firsts are always special, and my first Final Four in Istanbul holds a special place in my heart. After following Fenerbahçe’s incredible journey—from Bamberg to Moscow and two playoff wins in Athens—I made it to Istanbul during my university exams.
The atmosphere was electric. Fenerbahçe fans turned the arena into a sea of yellow, and witnessing them lift the trophy as the host city’s team was unforgettable. Historically, only five host city teams have won the title, and Istanbul 2017 marked the fifth.
However, I barely explored the city or the Fan Zone, which, at the time, was in a shopping mall and lacked energy. On the bright side, the ANGT (Adidas Next Generation Tournament) games were conveniently located near the Final Four arena, making it easy for media to catch the youth games.
And again, Istanbul 2017 was the event that made me fall in love with the Final Four experience.
2018: Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade 2018 was a unique experience for me, as I wasn’t there as media but as a student attending lectures for the EBI Sports Business MBA. While I couldn’t enjoy the city’s basketball buzz during the day, my family, who explored more, described the atmosphere as vibrant.
Thousands of Fenerbahçe fans painted the city yellow ready for the second title, joined by a recognizable number of Zalgiris Kaunas fans. The event ended in heartbreak for Fenerbahçe fans—thanks to Luka Dončić and Real Madrid. However, it remains a memorable stop on my Final Four journey.
2019: Vitoria-Gasteiz, Spain
Vitoria-Gasteiz was a mixed bag. The culinary experience —hello, pintxos— was unbeatable and is unbeatable so far. Unfortunately, that’s where the highlights ended.
The weather was dreadful, working conditions were not the greatest (like the mobile toilets outside, whaaat?!), and the organization was not the greatest for my taste. Compared to the previous events in Istanbul and Belgrade, this one fell flat. While the Basque Country is a beautiful region with a rich history and delicious cuisine, this was my least favorite Final Four experience.
2021: Cologne, Germany
The fan-less Final Four. Enough said. Without fans, the event felt hollow, but I’d love to give Cologne another shot—this time with a full house.
2022: Belgrade, Serbia
Belgrade is the reliable friend of basketball community: welcoming, easy to navigate, and always buzzing with basketball energy, regardless of which teams are playing.The locals embraced the event, especially Crvena Zvezda fans with their support to Olympiacos, and the city felt alive with basketball fever, which isn’t always a given.
What I recall from Belgrade 2022 the most is that I had great time with basketball friends coming all over Europe. This Final Four is definitely among the most special ones for me.
2023: Kaunas, Lithuania
Kaunas had all the ingredients for a fantastic Final Four: great weather, smooth organization, a rich basketball culture and it's small enough that everything is just walk distance away. And thankfully, Olympiacos fans did a great job, creating a vibrant atmosphere and elevating the experience.
If there had been one more team with a passionate fan base, Kaunas might have been the best Final Four yet. So, I hope we return to Lithuania soon for a Final Four with at least two teams with crazy fan bases!
2024: Berlin, Germany
Let’s put it this way: Berlin had potential—three teams with home-court advantage vibes—but the execution fell short.
Unexpectedly unprepared security, followed by barking police dogs courtside (yes, really), and a disconnect with the local community ruined the event partially. To my surprise even the guests of restaurant near the arena were clueless about what was happening!
Fan Zone was cool, and maybe the coolest ever so far, but hidden away. And maybe Euroleague should give up on the idea of "concert" unless they convince an artist that some of us know. Finally, dear EuroLeague admin, if you’re reading this, let’s skip Berlin for a while, shall we?
2025: The Mystery Continues
At the time of writing, the Final Four destination remains unconfirmed. Initially, I was almost certain it would return to Belgrade, but recent rumors hint at the Gulf region.
While showcasing European basketball outside Europe sounds intriguing, I’m a traditionalist at heart and would like to keep the Final Four location within the European basketball community.
Would I go to Abu Dhabi or Dubai? It depends on the financial logistics. For now, I’m holding my breath for the official announcement.
What about you? Have you ever attended a EuroLeague Final Four? Which city would you love to see host this basketball spectacle?
Cheers,
B.
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