Amanda Zahui, who left Telge Basket in 2012, returned to Södertälje BBK in February 2026 after a long career overseas. Multiple reports indicate that Zahui's return has bolstered Södertälje, which finished seventh in the regular season, though some sources list them as sixth. The discrepancy affects the narrative of Södertälje's underdog story, but both finishes are low. Luleå Basket, the dominant force in Swedish women's basketball, won the first final game 95-57 and leads the series 1-0. Luleå has won eight consecutive matches against Södertälje, according to multiple reports. Luleå aims for its tenth SM gold since 2014, a testament to their sustained excellence. Södertälje's Louice Halvarsson and Amanda Zahui are veterans with nearly 200 international caps combined, bringing experience to the underdog team.
Zahui's personal story adds emotional depth to the finals. According to multiple reports, her mother Ann-Sofi was declared cancer-free after eleven years. Zahui has spoken about the relief and joy this has brought to her family, and her return to Sweden has allowed her to be closer to her mother during this time. The family background has been a source of strength for Zahui as she reacclimates to Swedish basketball.
Robin Edbom stated he hates playing against all teams except Östersund, calling them 'fruktansvärt tråkiga'.
Key players have emerged in the finals. According to Norrländska Socialdemokraten (27 mars), Emma Lundgren credited Fanny Wadling for her development from a role player to a key player. Wadling scored 19 points and 15 rebounds in a semifinal game, according to multiple reports. Her performance has been crucial for Luleå's success. The depth of Luleå's roster, combined with Wadling's emergence, poses a significant challenge for Södertälje.
Controversy has arisen from comments by Robin Edbom, a coach. According to Norrländska Socialdemokraten (29 mars), Robin Edbom stated he hates playing against all teams except Östersund, calling them 'fruktansvärt tråkiga' (terribly boring). The remarks have drawn criticism from other teams and fans, though Edbom has not publicly clarified his comments. The incident highlights the competitive tensions within the league.
Emma Lundgren credited Fanny Wadling for her development from a role player to a key player.
Luleå Basket's recent games have been strong. According to research, Luleå won 95-62 against Gladan in a home game at Luleå Energi Arena. Luleå is leading the series and achieved their fourth straight win in the series. Their next game is against Sunderby at home on Sunday, March 8 at 13:00. The team's consistent performance has solidified their position as favorites for the title.
Playoff logistics have been announced. According to Luleå Basket, season tickets are valid for the 2025 playoffs. HSB members have free entry to Luleå Basket's home games during the regular season and playoffs. The bag ban continues during the 2025 playoffs, a security measure that has been in place. Broadcasts for SBL dam are available on sbldamplay.se and many local newspapers for the 25-26 season, according to research. Flashscore.se provides Luleå BBK D results, standings, and match details in real-time, according to research.
Community basketball activities are also ongoing. According to research, Gladan is a basketball club for children, youth, and adults in several areas of Luleå. Gladan invites to sportlovsbasket on March 5 and 6 at Björkskataskolans sporthall, free and no registration required. Gladan's board invites coaches and team leaders to a leader meeting on Sunday, January 25 at 18:00-19:30. These events aim to promote basketball participation in the community.
Several unknowns remain about the finals. The current series score is only known after game one, with Luleå leading 1-0. The schedule for remaining games has not been fully disclosed. Zahui's specific role and performance in the finals so far are not detailed in available reports. Injury updates for key players on either team are also unavailable. The attendance and fan atmosphere for the finals have not been reported. These gaps leave room for further developments as the series progresses.