EuroLeague 2025/26: Anadolu Efes Signs Jordan Loyd & Zalgiris Kaunas Opens Season With a Win

EuroLeague 2025/26 is heating up! Anadolu Efes signed Jordan Loyd from Monaco to boost their backcourt, while Zalgiris Kaunas opened the Lithuanian League season with a strong road win over Jonava.

The new EuroLeague 2025/26 basketball season is already making headlines with major roster moves and competitive action across Europe. Two of the most notable stories this week come from Turkey and Lithuania: Anadolu Efes Istanbul’s signing of Jordan Loyd and Zalgiris Kaunas’ strong start in the Lithuanian League.

These developments are shaping the narrative of the upcoming EuroLeague season, giving fans plenty to be excited about as the first tip-off approaches.

Anadolu Efes Signs Jordan Loyd

Anadolu Efes has officially secured the services of Jordan Loyd on a one-year deal. The 32-year-old guard, who previously played for Monaco, is widely recognized for his ability to create scoring opportunities, deliver under pressure, and bring experience to the backcourt.

Efes has long been searching for additional depth and consistency in the guard position, and Loyd seems to be the perfect fit. His versatility allows him to play both on and off the ball, making him a valuable piece in a roster already filled with offensive talent.

Head coach Erdem Can is expected to integrate Loyd into the lineup quickly, using his scoring ability and defensive awareness to balance the team’s rotation. Fans are already speculating that Loyd could be one of the most impactful transfers of the season, especially if he maintains the form that made him a standout in Monaco.

Efes supporters hope this addition will help the club bounce back into Final Four contention. With strong competition from Real Madrid, Barcelona, Olympiacos, and Fenerbahçe, the margin for error is slim, and every high-level signing could make the difference.

Zalgiris Kaunas Opens With a Road Win

Meanwhile, Zalgiris Kaunas started their domestic season on a high note, defeating Jonava 87-78 in the opening round of the Lithuanian League. The victory showed that the team is in excellent shape ahead of the EuroLeague, where every game is crucial for building momentum.

Forward Moses Wright was the standout performer, scoring 18 points in under 22 minutes of action. His efficiency and energy on both ends of the floor were instrumental in keeping Zalgiris ahead. Another key contributor was Azuolas Tubelis, who added 14 points and provided stability in the frontcourt.

In addition to Wright and Tubelis, players like Nigel Williams-Goss, Deividas Sirvydis, and Ignas Brazdeikis also reached double figures, proving that Zalgiris can rely on a well-balanced team rather than just one or two stars. Head coach Tomas Masiulis emphasized the importance of team chemistry, which was evident in how the squad shared the ball and executed plays.

This early victory is more than just a domestic league win; it sends a signal that Zalgiris intends to compete at the highest level in EuroLeague. The combination of veteran leadership and young talent could make them a dangerous opponent for any club this season.

Setting the Stage for EuroLeague 2025/26

Both stories highlight how quickly momentum can shift before the EuroLeague season even begins. Anadolu Efes is strengthening its lineup with experienced talent, while Zalgiris is building confidence through strong performances on the court.

Basketball fans across Europe are eagerly waiting to see how these early developments will play out once the EuroLeague campaign tips off. Will Jordan Loyd be the missing piece Efes needs to return to dominance? Can Zalgiris build on their early success and surprise the traditional powerhouses?

One thing is clear: the EuroLeague 2025/26 season promises high-level competition, dramatic matchups, and plenty of storylines that will keep fans engaged from start to finish.