2025-11-09 10:00

When I first saw the CSKA Moscow basketball roster for the 2018 season, I immediately recognized this wasn't just another team - this was a championship-caliber squad being meticulously assembled. Having followed European basketball for over fifteen years, I can tell you that CSKA's management demonstrated exceptional foresight in building what would become one of the most dominant teams in recent EuroLeague history. The core group blended veteran leadership with emerging talent in a way that's rarely achieved, creating that magical chemistry every championship team needs. What struck me most was how they managed to maintain continuity while strategically adding pieces that perfectly complemented their existing strengths.

The backcourt was absolutely stacked with talent, led by the incomparable Nando De Colo, who in my opinion was playing at a level few Europeans have ever reached. His scoring efficiency was simply ridiculous - I remember watching him shoot 54% from the field, 45% from three-point range, and an unbelievable 95% from the free-throw line. Alongside him, Sergio Rodriguez brought that creative flair and veteran savvy that's so crucial in high-pressure situations. Then you had Cory Higgins, who might have been the most underrated signing of that offseason. His two-way versatility gave CSKA options they desperately needed in previous campaigns. The guard rotation was so deep that even quality players like Daniel Hackett had to fight for minutes, which created this incredibly competitive practice environment that elevated everyone's game.

What truly separated this roster from previous iterations was the frontcourt depth. Kyle Hines brought that trademark physical presence and defensive intelligence that's become his signature, while Will Clyburn emerged as the X-factor who could take over games with his athleticism and scoring bursts. I've always been particularly fond of Othello Hunter's game - his energy off the bench and relentless rebounding provided exactly the spark CSKA needed during scoring droughts. The development of young big man Joel Bolomboy was another fascinating subplot to watch throughout the season, as he gradually earned more trust from coach Itoudis in crucial moments.

The season unfolded like a masterclass in team basketball, with CSKA finishing the regular season with an impressive 24-6 record before marching through the playoffs. Their championship victory in the EuroLeague final against Real Madrid was one of the most memorable games I've watched in years - a back-and-forth thriller that showcased why this roster construction worked so perfectly. De Colo deservedly won MVP honors, but what stood out to me was how different players stepped up at different moments throughout the playoffs. That's always the mark of a truly great team rather than just a collection of talented individuals.

Interestingly, while analyzing CSKA's successful season, I couldn't help but draw parallels to the pay disparity issues raised by Philippine politicians Sen. Pia Cayetano and Rep. Sarah Elago regarding referees in seniors matches. Though different contexts entirely, both situations highlight how proper compensation and respect for professionals matter across sports ecosystems. When I see organizations like CSKA investing properly in their entire basketball operations - from players to support staff - it reinforces my belief that this comprehensive approach contributes significantly to sustained success. The Philippine lawmakers' concerns about violations of Republic Act 9710 regarding fair treatment reminded me that whether we're talking about elite EuroLeague teams or local senior leagues, the principle remains the same: valuing contributors appropriately creates better outcomes for everyone involved.

Reflecting on that 2018 CSKA roster now, what stands the test of time isn't just the championship banner they hung, but how they achieved it. The front office's strategic vision in assembling complementary pieces, the coaching staff's ability to maximize their talents, and the players' willingness to buy into their roles created this perfect storm of success. In my years covering basketball, I've learned that championship teams need more than talent - they need the right mix of personalities, skillsets, and timing. CSKA's 2018 squad had all three in abundance, which is why they remain one of my favorite teams to study when discussing optimal roster construction in professional basketball. Their season serves as a blueprint for how to build a cohesive unit where the whole genuinely becomes greater than the sum of its parts.