DistantNews
Support us
EuroLeague CEO: 'Even in the worst-case scenario, the EuroLeague will never disappear'
๐Ÿ‡ฌ๐Ÿ‡ท Greece /Sports

EuroLeague CEO: 'Even in the worst-case scenario, the EuroLeague will never disappear'

From Ta Nea · () Greek

Translated from Greek, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Named sources Context piece
  • EuroLeague CEO acknowledges potential NBA Europe plans but asserts the league's strength and future security.
  • He stated that even if five teams leave for NBA Europe, the EuroLeague would continue with 15 teams.
  • The league plans to expand to 24 teams via new franchises starting in 2027, with significant investor interest.

EuroLeague CEO, Jordi Bertomeu, expressed confidence in the league's current strength and its future, even in the face of potential NBA Europe expansion. He asserted that the EuroLeague is experiencing its best period and has secured unity for the next decade, with teams interested in a franchise model.

I can say that we have never been in a better situation. We are stronger than ever, we have secured unity for the next 10 years.

โ€” Jordi BertomeuDescribing the current state and future stability of the EuroLeague.

Bertomeu addressed concerns about the league's existence, stating, "People must understand that the EuroLeague is not going to disappear. Even in the worst-case scenario, if five teams leave for NBA Europe, the EuroLeague will still have 15 teams. There is no way it will cease to exist."

People must understand that the EuroLeague is not going to disappear. Even in the worst-case scenario, if five teams leave for NBA Europe, the EuroLeague will still have 15 teams. There is no way it will cease to exist.

โ€” Jordi BertomeuReassuring about the EuroLeague's continued existence despite potential competition.

Looking ahead, the EuroLeague has plans to expand from 20 to 24 teams through new franchises starting in 2027. Bertomeu revealed that the league has already received over 20 franchise offers totaling 1.2 billion euros, indicating strong investor interest and confidence in the league's growth.

We have received more than 20 offers for franchises, with a total value of 1.2 billion euros. We feel very strong and are confident that we will achieve our goals.

โ€” Jordi BertomeuHighlighting significant investor interest in EuroLeague expansion.

Regarding relations with the NBA, Bertomeu remains optimistic about reaching an agreement, warning that a lack of one could fragment European basketball. He noted that while a "click" moment hasn't occurred yet, discussions are ongoing and could lead to a breakthrough.

I remain optimistic. I believe we can still find common ground. To date, we haven't had the necessary 'click,' but discussions continue, and perhaps from one week to the next, everything will change.

โ€” Jordi BertomeuExpressing hope for an agreement with the NBA.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Ta Nea in Greek. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.