The Saint Louis men's basketball team arrived in Madrid, Spain, on Saturday to begin its European Tour that will also take the team to Florence, Italy, and Rome, Italy. The Billikens will have the opportunity to play the part of tourist during the trip and experience all that these cities have to offer. There is some business to take care of, as well, as SLU will play an exhibition game in each of the cities.

The Billikens had a long day of travel on Friday into Saturday, flying through Atlanta for the first international flight for several team members. SLU arrived in Madrid at approximately 9 a.m. local time Saturday morning, then checked into their hotel in Madrid for the beginning of a long first day in Spain.

The Billikens spent the rest of the morning and the early afternoon exploring the area of Madrid surrounding the hotel. The team is staying in the Goya neighborhood in Madrid, within walking distance to many sites in the city. Several players are becoming fully immersed in the culture and the language – Sincere Parker is quick to shout out andale whenever the team is on the move. Terrence Hargrove Jr. and Javon Pickett are having a good time greeting locals with an Hola, como estas?

After exploring the area around the hotel, it was time for some business as the team departed for practice. On the way to practice, the Billikens stopped off to visit the Saint Louis University Madrid Campus. SLU Madrid was established in 1967 and is home to 850 students from more than 50 countries.

The Billikens practiced at UCJC Sports Club, where they will play their first game Sunday at Noon St. Louis time against Zentro Basket. 

The Billikens' first day in Madrid came to a close with a team dinner. Prior to the meal, the team explored the Royal Palace of Madrid, the largest functioning royal palace in all of Europe.

On Sunday, the plan is for the Billikens to get some rest and hang near the hotel as they prepare for their first game of the trip against Zentro Basket at Noon (St. Louis time), 7 p.m. local.