Nine years ago, on , Real Madrid secured their 27th Copa del Rey title in a nail-biting final against Valencia Basket in Vitoria. The victory, achieved by a mere two points – 97-95 – marked a significant milestone for the club and head coach Pablo Laso.
The win wasn’t simply another trophy for Real Madrid’s cabinet. it represented the fourth consecutive Copa del Rey title for Laso’s team. This achievement hadn’t been seen in 34 years, solidifying Laso’s legacy and the team’s dominance during that period. The intensity of the competition was evident throughout the tournament, culminating in a final that went down to the wire.
Sergio Llull led the scoring for Real Madrid in the championship game, contributing 22 points and earning the tournament’s Most Valuable Player (MVP) award. Llull’s performance underscored his importance to the team’s success, both as a scorer and a playmaker. His ability to perform under pressure proved crucial in securing the title.
The road to the final wasn’t without its challenges. Real Madrid faced a tough quarterfinal matchup against Andorra, ultimately prevailing 99-93 after a hard-fought contest that required overtime. The comeback victory demonstrated the team’s resilience and determination, qualities that would be essential in navigating the rest of the tournament.
In the semifinals, Real Madrid encountered another formidable opponent in Baskonia, the host team. The game mirrored the quarterfinal in its intensity, going into overtime before Real Madrid emerged victorious with a score of 99-103. This win secured their place in the final and set the stage for the highly anticipated clash with Valencia Basket.
The 2026 Copa del Rey victory adds another chapter to Real Madrid’s rich basketball history. The club has a long and storied tradition in the competition and this 27th title further cements their position as one of the most successful teams in Spanish basketball. The win also highlights the ongoing competitiveness of the Liga ACB, with teams like Valencia Basket and Baskonia consistently challenging for honors.
Looking back, the 2017 Copa del Rey final – the event this anniversary commemorates – was a pivotal moment for Real Madrid. It not only secured a trophy but also established a period of sustained success under Laso. The team’s ability to overcome adversity, perform in clutch moments, and rely on the leadership of players like Llull were key ingredients in their triumph.
The broader context of Spanish basketball at the time was one of increasing competition and rising standards. Teams were investing in talent, and the league was attracting players from across Europe and beyond. Real Madrid’s success during this period was a testament to their commitment to excellence and their ability to adapt to the evolving landscape of the sport.
While the provided information focuses specifically on the 2017 Copa del Rey, it’s worth noting the broader significance of the competition itself. The Copa del Rey is a prestigious tournament in Spanish basketball, steeped in tradition and fiercely contested by teams from across the country. Winning the Copa del Rey is considered a major achievement, and it often serves as a stepping stone to further success in the Liga ACB and European competitions.
The rivalry between Real Madrid and Barcelona is a defining feature of Spanish sports, and the Copa del Rey often provides a platform for these two giants to clash. A search of recent results reveals that Barcelona defeated Real Madrid 3-2 on , in a game analyzed by ESPN. This result underscores the ongoing competitiveness of the rivalry and the high stakes involved in every encounter between the two clubs.
The Copa del Rey has a long and distinguished history, dating back to 1903. As of 2025, Barcelona holds the record for the most wins, with 32 titles, while Real Madrid is close behind with 19. The competition has evolved over the years, but its core principles of knockout competition and national pride remain unchanged. The list of Copa del Rey finals, as documented by Wikipedia, showcases the rich tapestry of Spanish basketball and the many teams that have competed for glory.
Recent events, such as Lamine Yamal’s comments after Barcelona’s Copa del Rey win, as reported by Sports Illustrated, demonstrate the passion and intensity that surround the competition. These moments add to the drama and excitement of the Copa del Rey, making it a must-watch event for basketball fans across Spain and beyond.
