This team needs to do its talking on the court, both collectively and individually. The Supercopa clash against Valencia Basket increased doubts about the squad, especially when compared with last season's roster. Every player will therefore want to show her best level against Estepona and build confidence at the start of the campaign.
It will be Mariona's first game since her departure in December was announced. Photo: Casademont Zaragoza
But all eyes will be on Mariona Ortiz. The captain has already made it clear that her time in the Aragonese capital will end on December 30, when she will head to Project B. It remains to be seen how the Marea Roja will receive the Catalan player after her decision was revealed, as well as how the Calella native will conduct herself on and off the court until the end of her spell.
Many doubts and not as many certainties surround Carlos Cantero's team before the start of his sixth season in charge of the red-and-black side. The good news, however, is that Ornella Bankolé is already in Zaragoza following her WNBA stint and will be available to play this Sunday.
THE OPPONENT: CAB ESTEPONA
The opponent in this league debut will be CAB Estepona. Despite entering only its second season in the top flight, the Málaga-based club has strengthened with high-level players after being one of last year's surprise packages by reaching the title playoffs, where it suffered a heavy quarterfinal defeat against Arnau Ferreres' team due to Cantero's absence on paternity leave.
César Aneas' team recently competed for a place in the EuroCup in a two-legged tie against GEAS Basket, losing both games. The most recent match was played this Wednesday in Milan, where they lost 76-71 and confirmed their elimination from the second European competition.
Estepona have undergone a complete overhaul, making as many as ten signings for the new season. Their roster includes former Casademont player Ainhoa Gervasini, Melisa Gretter and, in the frontcourt, Tinari Moore. However, one of the players arriving in the best form for this game is wing player Stephanie Watts, who scored 15 points in the most recent match. It will be a demanding game for Cantero's team, who want to return to normality as soon as possible—and there is no better way to do so than by winning at the Príncipe Felipe this weekend.
