In a thrilling conclusion to the 2024–25 EuroCup Women’s basketball season, ESB Villeneuve-d’Ascq LM clinched their second championship title by defeating BAXI Ferrol with an aggregate score of 162–145. The two-legged final saw Villeneuve secure a narrow 78–75 victory in the first leg, followed by a commanding 84–70 win in the second leg, held on April 2, 2025.
Dominant Performance in the Second Leg
The decisive second leg took place at Villeneuve’s home court, where they capitalized on their home advantage to seal the championship. From the outset, Villeneuve displayed offensive prowess, with Shavonte Zellous leading the charge. Zellous delivered an outstanding performance, scoring 23 points, including an impressive 5-of-6 from beyond the arc. Her early three-pointers set the tone, propelling Villeneuve to a 13–3 lead within the first three minutes.
BAXI Ferrol, despite their resilience, struggled with defensive adjustments and turnovers, committing 13 turnovers that hindered their offensive rhythm. Efforts from players like Gala Mestres and Claire Melia provided moments of hope, but Villeneuve’s consistent execution maintained their lead. By halftime, Villeneuve held a 42–30 advantage, further extending it to 66–50 by the end of the third quarter.
Key Players and Tactical Execution
Villeneuve’s success was not solely due to Zellous’s brilliance. The team’s collective effort, particularly in exploiting Ferrol’s defensive gaps, was evident. Point guard Carla Leite orchestrated the offense efficiently, ensuring fluid ball movement and creating open shots. Leite’s performance throughout the tournament earned her the Finals MVP award, highlighting her significant contribution to Villeneuve’s campaign. Leite averaged 20.5 pts, 6.0 ast, and 2.5 reb throughout the finals.
On the defensive end, Villeneuve’s strategy to pressure Ferrol’s ball handlers resulted in crucial turnovers, disrupting Ferrol’s offensive flow. This defensive intensity, combined with effective transition play, allowed Villeneuve to capitalize on fast-break opportunities.
BAXI Ferrol’s Remarkable Journey
Despite falling short in the final, BAXI Ferrol’s journey to their first EuroCup Women final was commendable. As debutants in the competition, their progression to the championship game exceeded expectations and showcased the team’s growth and potential on the European stage. Their campaign included notable victories against seasoned opponents, reflecting the team’s resilience and tactical acumen.
Historical Context and Significance
Villeneuve’s triumph marks their second EuroCup Women title, with their previous championship secured a decade earlier. This victory places them among an elite group of clubs with multiple EuroCup titles, underscoring the club’s sustained excellence in European women’s basketball.
The final also highlighted the evolving competitiveness of the EuroCup Women, with emerging teams like BAXI Ferrol challenging established clubs, indicating a positive trajectory for the sport’s development across Europe.
Looking Ahead
For Villeneuve, this championship serves as a foundation for future ambitions, potentially aiming for success in the EuroLeague Women. The experience gained and the confidence boost from this victory will be instrumental as they prepare for higher-level competitions.
BAXI Ferrol’s impressive run signals their arrival as a formidable force in European basketball. Building on this experience, they are poised to strengthen their squad and strategies, aiming for continued success in domestic and international arenas.
The 2024–25 EuroCup Women season concluded with ESB Villeneuve-d’Ascq LM reaffirming their status as a powerhouse in European women’s basketball. Their decisive victory over BAXI Ferrol in the final showcased tactical brilliance, individual excellence, and team cohesion. As both teams reflect on their journeys, the season stands as a testament to the growing competitiveness and appeal of women’s basketball across Europe.
For those interested in witnessing the action firsthand, highlights of the final match are available: