Eric McCollum reflects on reaching his first EuroLeague Final Four at 37, recounts how his brother CJ came to join him in Abu Dhabi, and explains his transformation at Fenerbahce. He also comments on the EuroLeague MVP award and the semifinal vs. Panathinaikos.
There's something poetic about reaching the pinnacle of a basketball season with your biggest supporter in the stands.
For Errick McCollum, the 2025 EuroLeague Final Four in Abu Dhabi represents more than just a shot at glory.
After Fenerbahce Beko Istanbul punched its ticket to the big event, Errick knew he'd be making the trip to Abu Dhabi.
What he didn't expect was that his younger brother, NBA star CJ McCollum, fresh off his own NBA season, would make the journey to the UAE to witness this potential career milestone firsthand.
CJ in the crowd
"He had the time, he had the opportunity," McCollum told BasketNews. "It doesn't always play out that way, but this time it did. He's excited to be here and support me."
That support means the world to Errick.
The McCollum brothers have always been tight.
"We have a very close relationship – you know, that's my best friend. Between him and my wife, I know I can always count on them."
And seeing his younger brother in the stands means more than words can explain.
"Anytime you see your family in the stands, it reminds you why you do this. You fight for your club, of course, but also for the name on your back. That's your family."
The timing worked out in part due to CJ's NBA team, the New Orleans Pelicans, falling short of the playoffs.
A misfortune for one McCollum turned into an opportunity for another.
"Unfortunately, his team did not play well, but that allowed him to be here. Who knows –maybe next year they're making a playoff run and he can't make it. But I'm glad he could come this year."
"You never know how
