The 2025 Albanian basketball season tipped off with fireworks as Besëlidhja claimed the Albanian Basketball Supercup, defeating Vllaznia Shkodër 89–73 in an intense and entertaining final. Played in front of passionate fans, the match delivered a blend of strategy, grit, and high-level skill, giving Lezhë supporters plenty to celebrate.
This triumph marks the first major trophy of the season and positions Besëlidhja as a serious contender for every competition in Albanian basketball.
The Albanian Basketball Supercup: A Curtain-Raiser Tradition
The Albanian Basketball Supercup is one of the most prestigious fixtures in the domestic basketball calendar. It pits the winner of the Albanian Basketball League against the holder of the Albanian Basketball Cup from the previous season. Much like similar competitions in European football and basketball, the Supercup acts as a season opener—testing champions early, measuring strengths, and setting expectations for the months ahead.
In the last decade, clubs such as Tirana, Teuta, Vllaznia, and now Besëlidhja have captured this trophy. For smaller basketball markets, it represents not only a title but also a statement: whoever wins signals their ambition to dominate the season.
A Match of Momentum Swings
The clash between Besëlidhja and Vllaznia did not disappoint. From the very first whistle, the pace was intense, and both teams showcased their determination. Here’s how the game unfolded quarter by quarter:
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First Quarter (20–13): Besëlidhja stormed out of the gate, showing discipline in defense and sharpness in attack. Their balanced scoring helped them build an early seven-point cushion.
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Second Quarter (18–20): Vllaznia regrouped and pushed back strongly. Their improved ball movement and outside shooting allowed them to narrow the gap. At halftime, Besëlidhja led 38–33, but the momentum seemed to be shifting.
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Third Quarter (21–21): The most hard-fought quarter of the game ended in a draw, highlighting the competitive balance between the two sides. With the score still close, the final period promised drama.
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Fourth Quarter (30–19): Besëlidhja’s depth and defensive pressure proved decisive. They unleashed a dominant final stretch, overwhelming Vllaznia to secure a commanding 16-point victory, 89–73.
The turning point came in the final minutes, when Besëlidhja’s energy and tactical adjustments smothered Vllaznia’s offense.
Standout Performers
The star of the night was undoubtedly Julian Hamati, who scored 23 points and showcased his leadership on both ends of the court. His combination of scoring efficiency, hustle, and composure in clutch moments made him the most valuable player of the Supercup final.
Other Besëlidhja players contributed crucially as well. The team’s rotation highlighted the importance of bench depth, with role players stepping up defensively and keeping the tempo high.
For Vllaznia, several players impressed during their second-quarter surge, but the inability to sustain intensity against Besëlidhja’s closing effort ultimately cost them the game.
Leadership and Reactions
After the victory, Besëlidhja’s president, Ylli Ujka, hailed the win as “the result of tireless work from players, coaches, and everyone involved with the club.” He emphasized that this was not just a one-off achievement but a sign of bigger ambitions. The club also extended gratitude to the Municipality of Lezhë and local supporters for their continuous backing.
On the other side, Vllaznia’s coaching staff admitted disappointment but expressed determination to bounce back quickly when the league begins. The message from Shkodër was clear: one defeat does not define a season.