CSKA Moscow won its first Euroleague title in more than 35 years, when they beat Maccabi Tel Aviv in the Final Four Tournament. The Russians managed a 73-69 win over ex-champions, as a revenge of last year's Final Four disaster, when, even if they were favorites, they lost in the semifinals.

This year's Final Four, held in Prague, saw 4 teams going for the trophy. In the semifinals, Maccabi beat Tau of Spain (85-70) and CSKA qualified for the final with an 84-75 win over Winterthur Barcelona. The final brought together 2 of the most powerful teams in European hoops. Maccabi, who were trying to go 3 in a row in Euroleague, and CSKA, the big losers from last year competition, who didn't manage to win the trophy although they were playing in Moscow, on home court. Among that, CSKA played his last 3 semifinals in 2003, 2004, 2005, but lost them all.

The Russians found in Theodoros Papaloukas a great player and the final's MVP, managing 18 point and 7 assists. He was absolutely thrilled with his performance, finding it hard to say something after the game: "We are the champions. I think we deserved it because we played very clever. These games are won with mind and soul". CSKA`s main weapon was the defense, making it hard for the Israeli to score easy shots. The turnovers situation into the game clearly shows the Russians superiority. Maccabi was held to 69 points, even if they were coming into the Final Four with one of the best offensive performances of the qualified teams.

CSKA coach, Ettore Messina was on the verge of emotions: "I feel so happy you know. Today my son got better, you'll excuse me if I get a bit emotional, and we won the Final against a great Maccabi, champion of the 2004 and 2005 Euroleague. It had been 36 years since our club CSKA had not won this title. I am sure that Alexander Gomelsky would be proud of what we accomplished tonight. We played smart and that led us to the title against a great Maccabi". His victory/loss record against Maccabi is now 9-0.

The loss stops Maccabi from becoming the third team in Euroleague history to win 3-in a row. Riga and Split's record still stands. CSKA however, are now on their 5th Euroleague title, the same performance as Maccabi had before of this game. The two teams are 3rd all-time as victories in the Euroleague are concerned. In the final for the 3rd place, Tau beat Barcelona 87-82.