Carrying flowers for the Virgen and hoping for the protection of her mantle during the new season, Casademont entered the basilica under the watchful eyes of more than one curious onlooker. The procession included president Reynaldo Benito, general manager José Antonio Artigas and sporting director Pedro Llompart, who brought up the rear of the red-and-black delegation. At the front of the long line, Zaragoza-born player Jaime Fernández and women's team member Helena Oma carried the floral offering and represented the club's respective squads at the altar.
"Once again, the Basket Zaragoza family embraces your Pilar," began the only Aragonese player on the men's team, addressing the Virgen with an emotional and moving message that he shared with the Catalan forward. "For everyone, you are a symbol of tradition and belonging that spans generations and generations who have rubbed and worn down your Pilar," the Catalan forward continued, before the two players conveyed prayers, thanks and requests to the Virgen del Pilar.
Jaime Fernández and Helena Oma represented Casademont. Photo: Pilar Álvarez
"We place at your feet our suffering and that of the Red Tide from last season," Jaime Fernández added to a message completed by Oma: "That is why, ma'am, we place our successes at your feet." With the new season beginning in just a few days, the red-and-black club is not asking for "miracles," but for "protection from injuries" and "strength" in difficult times. After the offering, Casademont went just a few metres from Plaza del Pilar to be welcomed at Zaragoza City Hall.
RECEPTION AT CITY HALL
With Mayor Natalia Chueca and Sports Councillor Félix Brocate in attendance, Zaragoza City Hall opened its doors to welcome Casademont. Through its highest representative, the city conveyed its support for the red-and-black club, which acts as an ambassador for the Aragonese capital in Spain and, as Carlos Cantero's women's team will do again this season, in Europe.
"It is an honour to continue this tradition and to wish you all the encouragement and good luck for the new season. Because Zaragoza is a basketball city," Natalia Chueca said. She also congratulated the women's team on a historic season and highlighted "the courage and fighting spirit" with which the men's team secured its place in the ACB.
Both squads were also welcomed at Zaragoza City Hall. Photo: Pilar Álvarez
"We are clear that we want to continue representing Zaragoza with respect, effort and commitment," said Mariona Ortiz, who acted as spokesperson for the women's team. Guillem Vives performed the same role for the men's side: "It is not just about playing games; it is about representing a club, a city and a land that feels basketball deeply." After Tuesday's reflective ceremony, they will begin carrying out this prestigious task from this very weekend.
