EC: Budućnost VOLI and U-BT Cluj-Napoca Both Suffer Defeats

BKT EuroCup night brought frustration for ABA representatives, as both Budućnost VOLI and U-BT Cluj-Napoca suffered defeats in group-stage games.

Budućnost VOLI suffered a big setback in the race for the next stage, falling on the road to Group B’s last-placed Panionios by 85:97.

The game was balanced through the first 20 minutes, with neither side able to create separation. However, the turning point came immediately after the break, as Budućnost completely lost control in the third quarter. Panionios dominated that stretch 28:18, swinging momentum decisively in their favor and never looking back.

With this defeat, Budućnost VOLI now share third place in Group B with an overall record of 8-5, missing a valuable opportunity to strengthen their position ahead of the decisive phase of the season.

In Group A action, U-BT Cluj-Napoca were unable to match Reyer Venice, losing 83:90 on the road in a direct battle for the Top 6 places.

Venice controlled the tempo from the opening tip, gradually building their advantage and keeping Cluj at arm’s length throughout the night. The decisive blow came in the fourth quarter, when the Italian side extended the lead to 15 points, effectively sealing the outcome.

U-BT Cluj-Napoca now share positions 4–6 in Group A with a 7–6 overall record.

2025/26 BKT EuroCup, Regular Season, Round 13, Wednesday, January 7, 2026:

PANIONIOS COSMORAMA TRAVEL – Budućnost VOLI 97:85 (17:23, 26:21, 28:18, 26:23)
Tsalmpouris 18, Thomasson 16 | Tanaskovic 17, Ferrell 15.

UMANA REYER VENICE – U-BT Cluj-Napoca 90:83 (19:16, 22:18, 20:18, 29:31)
Nikolic 23, Cole 18 | Woodbury 18, Creek 18.

Tuesday, 6 January 2026:

Cedevita Olimpija – BAHCESEHIR COLLEGE 59:67 (14:13, 21:12, 10:22, 14:20)
Gibson 25, Nikolić 16 | Mitchell 13, Akpinar and Cavanaugh 12.