A historic day awaits Barcelona tomorrow: a surprise sparks curiosity
What's the story?
Barcelona mark a historic milestone on Monday as their basketball section celebrates 100 years since its founding. The day blends a look back at one of the club's proudest chapters with the launch of a new era, one in which the team aims to reclaim its place among Europe's elite.
According to Spanish newspaper "Sport", Barcelona's basketball section was officially founded on 24 August 1926. The club's board approved Pere Cussó's proposal to establish a dedicated basketball section during a meeting at its former headquarters in the Plaza del Teatro area near the Ramblas.
A century of history has brought its share of triumphs and titles, along with difficult spells and bitter disappointments. The centenary arrives just as Barcelona look to rebuild their team and return in force to the heart of the competition.
Held in the Auditori 1899 hall, the main celebration will draw a host of legends and figures who shaped the club's basketball history. Organisers will also unveil the events and activities planned across the 2026-2027 season to mark the occasion.
Joan Laporta, Barcelona's president, is expected to open proceedings with a speech. He will run through the section's proudest moments over a full century, stressing its importance within the club and the board's determination to keep backing it.
This landmark coincides with the dawn of a new phase for the team. Barcelona have overhauled their squad and appointed new Slovenian coach Sikolik, hoping to steer the side back on track after a period that fell short of the club's and supporters' ambitions.
In the afternoon, the first team kick off their pre-season with a first training session. Only a handful of players will be present, with many away on international duty during the FIBA match window.
Juan Núñez, Mohamed Dabone and Abdou Kouni take part in the start of preparations, alongside Kevin Punter, who was granted permission to join sessions later. New pair Josh Nebo and Agustín Ubal, meanwhile, get their first taste of life with the team.
Fresh arrivals Tyrese Martin, Justin Robinson, Youan Makoundou and Stanley Umude also begin their preparations with Barcelona. Several players are absent on international duty, among them Darío Brizuela and Joel Parra with Spain, Olivier Nkamhoua with Finland, Aleksander Balcerowski with Poland, Toussaint Ibewuman with Britain, and Umoja Gibson with Bulgaria.
