Basketball’s top European competitions are set to return to Israel for the first time since the October 7, 2023 attacks. The Euroleague and EuroCup games will resume in the country from December 1, marking a significant step toward normalcy after months of conflict, the organisers announced on Tuesday.
According to a statement from Euroleague Basketball, the decision was made after clubs agreed that the current security and political conditions, following recent peace initiatives, allow for the safe resumption of games. Since October 2023, matches involving Israeli teams had been relocated to neutral venues due to the war on Gaza.
The announcement means that Maccabi Tel Aviv and Hapoel Tel Aviv, both participating in this season’s Euroleague, will finally host home games again. Meanwhile, Hapoel Jerusalem, competing in the EuroCup, will also return to its home court after more than a year of displacement.
“After thoughtful deliberation, ECA clubs agreed on the proposal to set December 1, 2025, as the date for games to resume in Israel,” Euroleague Basketball said in an official statement. It added that the organisation will continue to monitor developments closely and remain in contact with local and international authorities to ensure the safety of all participants.
The governing body expressed optimism about the region’s peace prospects, saying it believes in the power of basketball to promote unity and understanding. “Euroleague Basketball reaffirms its commitment to contributing to peace through the shared values of sport, respect, and community,” it said.
Despite these positive steps, tensions remain fragile. Both Israel and Hamas have accused each other of violating the ceasefire agreement, citing delays in aid deliveries and disputes over returning hostage bodies.
Even so, the return of Euroleague and EuroCup games to Israel represents a hopeful moment for sports fans and a reminder of how sport can serve as a bridge for peace and resilience amid conflict.
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