Following a title-less season, a first since 2011, Real Madrid Basketball has decided to terminate the contract of Sergio Scariolo, the former Spanish national team coach. They are now poised to bring in Pedro Martínez, the current coach of Valencia Basket. Martínez will depart the “orange” team after two seasons in his second tenure with the club.
According to Spanish sports publication As, the prospect of coaching Real Madrid has enticed Martínez, as it represents his first opportunity to lead a “big” team. Prior to this, he had two stints with Valencia (2015-2017, during which he secured Valencia’s only league championship), and also coached Baskonia, Gran Canaria, and Manresa.
This move is a significant blow to Valencia. They attempted to retain Martínez by presenting him with a counter-offer, but he is reportedly determined to join Real Madrid. The “white” club is expected to pay a release clause of one million euros for Martínez. Additionally, Real Madrid will also compensate Scariolo with five million euros for the early termination of his contract, which had two seasons remaining.
Under Martínez’s guidance, Valencia Basket achieved historic success, reaching the Final Four of the EuroLeague and winning the Spanish Supercup. Just last week, they clinched the ACB League title, defeating FC Barcelona 3-1 in the finals. Martínez was also recognized as the Coach of the Season.