Euroleague CEO Chus Bueno: Collaboration with NBA is Key, Italian Teams in Focus

MILAN – Euroleague Basketball’s newly appointed CEO, Chus Bueno, has outlined a vision for the future of European basketball, emphasizing the potential for collaboration with the NBA and exploring expansion possibilities, including the addition of more Italian teams to the prestigious competition. Bueno shared his insights in a recent interview with La Gazzetta dello Sport, touching on topics ranging from league structure to specific club situations like Olimpia Milano and Virtus Bologna.

NBA Collaboration: A Unified Approach

A central theme of Bueno’s discussion was the possibility of a strategic alliance with the NBA. He believes a collaborative approach is the most beneficial path forward for the sport, rather than direct competition. “We are convinced that for the good of basketball in Europe, the best thing would be a common solution with the EuroLeague, finding an agreement for a systemic approach to growth,” Bueno stated. He acknowledged the NBA’s potential investment – reportedly around five billion euros – as a significant opportunity, but stressed the value of the EuroLeague’s existing product.

Bueno highlighted the strength of the EuroLeague’s current offering, noting its competitive games, established teams, and deep-rooted basketball culture. “They [the NBA] know we have the best teams with the greatest tradition and culture, which is also part of European culture,” he explained. He suggested that leveraging the EuroLeague’s existing foundation would be more cost-effective than starting from scratch, and that a partnership could maximize opportunities for both leagues. “Together we can maximize the opportunity for both: we wouldn’t lose so much money if we did things together,” Bueno said. He anticipates further discussions once the NBA completes its due diligence and clarifies its available resources.

The CEO envisions a division of labor, with the NBA bringing capital, marketing expertise, and brand recognition, while the EuroLeague contributes its established teams, cities, and competitive framework. “We bring the assets. We have the teams, the cities and the competition. And they can bring their expertise in managing leagues. They bring capital. And they have a very recognizable logo that is important to bring partners like TV, sponsorships,” Bueno explained. He emphasized that the EuroLeague isn’t approaching the potential partnership with fear, but rather with a focus on maximizing the benefits for all stakeholders.

Italian Expansion: A Third Team on the Horizon?

Turning to domestic matters, Bueno addressed the possibility of adding a third Italian team to the EuroLeague. Currently, Olimpia Milano and Virtus Bologna represent Italy in the competition. Bueno revealed he is already in contact with several Italian clubs, including Trento, Venezia, and Napoli, to discuss their potential future within the league. “I am already in contact with Trento, Venezia and Napoli, people are contacting me because they want to understand what the future of this league is,” he said. He indicated that adding another Italian team is a possibility, stating simply, “Why not? If it makes sense, why not?” He emphasized the importance of Italy’s basketball tradition and strong partnerships.

Olimpia Milano: A Cornerstone of the League

Bueno firmly dismissed any speculation about Olimpia Milano’s future in the EuroLeague. “I do not see Milan outside the EuroLeague. It’s a great team, a huge tradition, one of the clubs that has been there from the beginning,” he stated. He underscored the club’s historical significance and its deep connection to the city of Milan. He also believes it’s unlikely another organization would successfully establish a competing basketball franchise in Milan, given the strong loyalty surrounding Olimpia. “I don’t see any scenario in which someone invests in this team, around which all the fans and the entire city of basketball revolve,” Bueno said.

Virtus Bologna and League Franchising

The EuroLeague is also moving towards a more stable franchise model. Bueno expressed his dissatisfaction with the current system of temporary licenses (A, B, C) and outlined plans to transition to permanent franchises. “I am not a big fan of the system with A, B, C licenses, of three years, of five… I think We see confusing and it is better to make a transition that will lead the league to increase its value and the clubs to have more clarity on their role, on rights and obligations,” he explained. The league aims to convert the 13 teams currently holding temporary licenses into permanent franchises during the next season.

This transition will involve an expansion fee for new franchises, potentially in the range of 50-80 million euros, according to Bueno. The league is also developing business plans to help new franchises secure funding and recoup their investment. Several teams have already expressed interest in becoming permanent members of the EuroLeague.

Rome’s Potential and League Expansion to 22 Teams

Bueno also addressed the possibility of Rome joining the EuroLeague, stating, “I say again: why not? Rome is a big city.” He acknowledged the potential benefits of adding a major market like Rome, but stressed the importance of a solid business plan, stable ownership, and a commitment to investment. He cautioned that building a successful basketball franchise in Rome has proven challenging in the past, requiring careful consideration. “You have to see if the ownership is stable and willing to invest, in the short or long term, if the project is solid,” he said.

Regarding a potential expansion to 22 teams, Bueno revealed that the league is evaluating the impact on the competition format. A 20-team double round-robin format has presented logistical challenges with travel and scheduling. The league is considering a conference system, but this would require at least 22 teams to be viable. Bueno also noted the need to consider the geopolitical situation and the financial stability of clubs before making a decision. A board meeting is scheduled for April 14th to discuss these issues and determine the best course of action.

The EuroLeague’s future appears to be one of strategic partnerships and careful expansion, with a focus on maximizing value for all stakeholders. The league’s leadership is clearly focused on building a sustainable and thriving future for European basketball.

Next Up: The EuroLeague board meeting on April 14th will be a key moment, as officials will decide on the format for the upcoming season and potential expansion plans. Stay tuned to Archysport for further updates.