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Former Euroleague CEO Warns Clubs Against NBA Control
WHY IT MATTERS
The outcome of this collaboration could determine the future of European basketball, with Euroleague clubs potentially sacrificing control for uncertain economic benefits.
What happened
Former Euroleague CEO Jordi Bertomeu has cautioned clubs against surrendering control to the NBA's planned European league, NBA Europe. The NBA is targeting a 2027 launch, while Euroleague plans to expand for the 2027-28 season.
Euroleague's 13 shareholder clubs collectively own and govern the competition, but it's unclear what authority they would hold under the NBA proposal. Bertomeu warned that the path to improved economic results for shareholder clubs is not guaranteed and that they would give up control over their own future.
He suggested collaboration on commercial operations and stadium infrastructure, but not format changes or economic reform. Euroleague's clubs rejected the NBA proposal at a meeting on October 6, and it's unclear what the next steps will be.
PRIMARY SOURCES
Former Euroleague CEO warns clubs against surrendering control to NBA
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