By Johnny Askounis/ info@eurohoops.net
The Basketball Champions League landscape shifted dramatically on Friday, ahead of the 2026–27 season.
Leading the charge, the reigning champions Rytas secured a massive addition by signing BKT EuroCup champion Ricky Lindo Jr. to a one-year deal. The 25-year-old forward arrives fresh off a continental championship run with JL Bourg and is immediately tasked with helping Rytas defend its BCL title. He joins a formidable roster locked in under head coach Nedas Pacevicius, which already features Kay Bruhnke, Arturas Gudaitis, Matas Jogela, Augustas Marciulionis, Gytis Masiulis, Martynas Paliukenas, Oskaras Pleikys, Gytis Radzevicius, and Ignas Urbonas. Rytas will begin its defense in Group A alongside Nanterre 92, Sabah, and Trabzonspor.
Meanwhile, Group F is shaping up to be highly competitive. Hapoel Holon strengthened its backcourt by acquiring 24-year-old guard Drew Thelwell. He becomes the latest summer addition for the Israeli club, joining fellow newcomers Claudell Harris Jr., Greg Lee III, Rivaldo Soares, and Shahar Amir as they prepare to face Cholet and Spartak Office Shoes. Hoping to join them through the Qualification Rounds, the Landau Lions locked down 30-year-old James Frazier Jr. to a two-year contract extension. Fellow hopeful Rasta Vechta completed its roster by signing 28-year-old Justin Edler-Davis.
In other groups, stability and new talent emerged. Peristeri Betsson secured its leadership by announcing a three-year contract extension with head coach Vassilis Xanthopoulos, anchoring the Greek side for its upcoming Group D battles against BMA365 Bamberg Baskets, Openjobemtis Varese, and UCAM Murcia. Finally, Bnei PenLink Herzliya bolstered its squad for Group H action by picking up 26-year-old DJ Brewton, who will help them navigate a challenging group featuring Asisa Juventut, Porto, and Telekom Baskets Bonn.
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