Polish ex-champion 'Gdynia' coached by Zībarts withdraws from championship due to financial troubles

The Polish Women's Basketball League (BLK) announced on Tuesday that 'Gdynia', coached by Mārtiņš Zībarts, has pulled out of next season's championship due to financial difficulties. The decision came after weeks of speculation.

Club president explains situation

Club president Bogusław Witkowski stated that the decision was very difficult but inevitable. He emphasized that he was primarily responsible for the budget and now must ensure the company's development to get it back on its feet. The club plans to restructure and settle debts.

Previous season and problems

In the 2024/25 season, 'Gdynia' became Polish champions and qualified for the EuroLeague. However, in the 2025/26 season, the team finished only eighth in the regular season out of 12 teams and was eliminated in the quarterfinals. In the EuroLeague, they lost all six games, and in the EuroCup, they lost in the first round of the playoffs.

Witkowski attributed the failures to losses at the start of the season and organizational issues. In December, coach Zībarts had only six players available, raising concerns about their health. 'They were very tired but fought with all their might in every match,' Zībarts said, adding that this was the toughest season of his career.

Club history and future

'Gdynia' is the successor of Gdańsk's 'Spojnia', founded in 1946, and moved to Gdynia in the 1990s. The club has won 14 Polish championships, finished second 12 times, and won bronze three times. It also boasts ten Polish Cups, the 2007 Super Cup, the 2002 World Club Championship title, and two runner-up finishes in the EuroLeague.

The club will not register for the next season but will continue as a joint-stock company undergoing restructuring. Last season's players have already signed contracts with other teams.