Real Madrid, the reigning EuroLeague champions, experienced a relatively quiet summer in the transfer market, with notable departures and only one significant signing: Facundo Campazzo. The 32-year-old point guard returned to Real Madrid after a stint in the NBA, and his impact on the team has been remarkable.
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Facundo Campazzo’s Journey
Campazzo initially joined Real Madrid in 2014, leaving Argentina for Europe. Over his first stint with the team, he won the EuroLeague twice and earned individual accolades. After a brief period in the NBA with the Denver Nuggets, Campazzo returned to Real Madrid, expressing his desire to rejoin the Spanish club.
Real Madrid’s Dominance in the EuroLeague
In the 2022/23 EuroLeague season, Real Madrid has asserted complete dominance, finishing the regular season third with 23 wins. Currently leading the standings with 17 wins after Round 19, Real Madrid has demonstrated exceptional performance. While the team’s success can’t be attributed solely to Campazzo, his impact has been significant.
Campazzo’s Statistical Significance
Examining the statistics showcases Campazzo’s vital role. He averages 12.1 points and 7.3 assists per game, leading the EuroLeague in assists. His offensive and defensive ratings contribute to Real outscoring opponents by an impressive 22.4 points per 100 possessions when he is on the court.
Campazzo’s +/- metric, indicating how much his team outscored opponents while he was on the court, is an outstanding +232, the best in the EuroLeague. His remarkable impact extends to scoring and facilitating plays, with a PTS+AST metric of 28.7, ranking fourth in the EuroLeague.
Campazzo’s Defensive Prowess
Campazzo is an offensive asset and a standout on-ball defender among guards. Despite his smaller stature, he causes trouble for larger opponents with his high basketball IQ and aggressive playstyle.
Recognition and Accolades
Campazzo’s stellar performance has earned him recognition in the EuroLeague community. In a mid-season survey among EuroLeague general managers, he was considered the MVP front-runner, the best leader, the most spectacular player, and the best passer.
Future NBA Opportunities?
While Campazzo dismissed talks of returning to the NBA in December, citing his intention to remain in the EuroLeague, his outstanding contributions to Real Madrid raise questions about potential opportunities in the future. Turning 33 in March, Campazzo still has several years of high-level basketball ahead.
His previous NBA stint with the Denver Nuggets showcased both strengths and challenges. Despite being praised as a top-five pick-and-roll player globally by Nuggets head coach Mike Malone, Campazzo faced obstacles due to his inconsistent shooting and limited threat inside the paint. His height, one of the shortest in the league, also posed challenges in defensive matchups.
Campazzo’s Blessing for Real Madrid
While his NBA tenure may not have met expectations, it proved to be a blessing for Real Madrid. Campazzo’s return to the EuroLeague has allowed him to consistently play a significant role, contend for titles, and remain a primary asset for his team.
Facundo Campazzo’s return to Real Madrid has been a game-changer for the EuroLeague champions. His leadership, playmaking abilities, and impact on both ends of the court have propelled Real Madrid to the top of the EuroLeague standings. As one of the league’s standout players, Campazzo’s contributions extend beyond statistics, earning him recognition and accolades from basketball experts. While the NBA remains an option, Campazzo’s current success and importance to Real Madrid make his EuroLeague journey a priority.