I still remember the first time I watched Zenit St Petersburg play in the EuroLeague—it was during the 2020-21 season, and honestly, I wasn't expecting much. They were relatively new to Europe's premier basketball competition, having made their debut just a year earlier. But what unfolded over the next couple of seasons completely changed my perspective. The team’s transformation from underdogs to serious contenders has been nothing short of remarkable, and it’s a story worth telling, especially when you look at how they’ve built their roster and adapted their strategies.
Zenit’s journey to EuroLeague success didn’t happen overnight. Founded in 2014, the club quickly climbed the ranks in Russian basketball, but the EuroLeague presented a whole new level of competition. I’ve followed European basketball for years, and I can tell you—the transition isn’t easy. Teams like CSKA Moscow and Real Madrid have dominated for decades, making it tough for newcomers to break through. Zenit’s initial seasons were rocky; they finished 15th in their debut 2019-20 campaign, winning just 10 games. But the management’s long-term vision started paying off when they invested in both experienced international players and homegrown talent. By the 2021-22 season, they’d jumped to a playoff spot, and that’s when people really started taking notice.
One of the pivotal moments in Zenit St Petersburg Basketball Team's Journey to EuroLeague Success and Key Players was the 2022 playoffs. They faced off against Barcelona, a team stacked with stars, and though they lost the series, they pushed it to a decisive Game 5. That series showcased their grit—something I admire in any team. But what stood out to me even more was how they learned from that experience. The following season, they refined their defensive schemes and improved their three-point shooting, which had been a weakness. Stats from that year show they increased their average points per game from 78.5 to 82.1, and their defense tightened up, allowing just 76.8 points per game compared to 80.2 the previous season. It’s rare to see a team make such precise adjustments so quickly.
A huge part of their rise can be attributed to key players who’ve stepped up in big moments. Take Kevin Pangos, for example—the Canadian point guard joined in 2021 and immediately became the floor general. His court vision is incredible; he averaged around 12 points and 7 assists last season, and I’d argue he’s one of the most underrated guards in Europe. Then there’s Mateusz Ponitka, the Polish forward who brings toughness and versatility. But the player who really caught my eye is Billy Baron. His clutch shooting in close games has saved Zenit multiple times—like that buzzer-beater against Olympiacos in 2022. I’ve always been a sucker for players who thrive under pressure, and Baron embodies that.
Interestingly, Zenit’s approach to building their squad reminds me of other successful teams I’ve covered, such as San Miguel in the Philippines. Looking at San Miguel's Marcio Lassiter PHOTO: Mark Cristino, for instance, you see a similar pattern—a veteran player who’s been crucial to his team’s consistency. Lassiter’s three-point shooting and leadership have helped San Miguel dominate the PBA, much like how Zenit’s core players have elevated their game in the EuroLeague. Both teams rely on a mix of experienced internationals and local talent, and it’s a formula that clearly works. In Zenit’s case, they’ve blended Russian players like Sergey Karasev with imports, creating a cohesive unit that’s hard to beat.
I had the chance to speak with a EuroLeague analyst last month, and he pointed out that Zenit’s coaching staff deserves a lot of credit. Head coach Xavi Pascual has implemented a system that emphasizes ball movement and defensive intensity. “They’re not just relying on individual talent,” the analyst told me. “They play as a unit, and that’s why they’ve been able to compete with the giants.” I couldn’t agree more. Watching their games, you see how everyone buys into the system—from the starters to the bench players. It’s a refreshing change from teams that depend too heavily on one or two stars.
Of course, it hasn’t been all smooth sailing. Injuries have plagued them at times, like when Pangos missed a chunk of the 2022-23 season with a knee issue. And let’s be honest—the financial backing from Gazprom has given them an edge, but money alone doesn’t win games. They’ve had to make smart decisions, like developing young players through their academy. I’m particularly excited about Alexey Shved, who returned to the team last year and added another scoring dimension. His experience in the NBA and EuroLeague brings a level of savvy that’s hard to teach.
As Zenit looks ahead, I believe they’re on the cusp of something special. They’ve built a culture of resilience, and with the core players locked in, I wouldn’t be surprised if they make a deep run in the upcoming EuroLeague season. Sure, they’ll face stiff competition from powerhouses like Fenerbahçe and Anadolu Efes, but based on what I’ve seen, they have the tools to compete. For fans like me, it’s thrilling to watch a team evolve and challenge the status quo. Zenit St Petersburg’s story is a testament to what happens when talent, strategy, and a bit of heart come together—and I, for one, can’t wait to see what’s next.