The ground is more convenient than ever for the NBA and FIBA cooperation to create a European league. Something that, as is natural, worried many of her friends Euroleague on how to affect the current system from any changes.
The Euroleague CEO, Poultrytalked to ‘L’Equipe’ about his extension plans Nba to Europe And it was reassuring about it, stressing that everyone is open to hear the proposals of the top league on the planet, but there is no “declaration of war” the risk of disappearing the Euroleague.
In detail what he said:
For Adam Silver’s press conference: “No, I don’t think it was a declaration of war. The good news, when I hear what was said, is that everyone seems to agree that European basketball is going well, that it is growing significantly and that the potential has never been higher. We believe that it is very positive that the NBA, with the help of FIBA, wants to explore this market even more. We know this area very well, we have the best fan base, the best teams, the most established culture. We are strong, we grow up every year and have confidence in our product. We will see what will come from this “exploration” announced at this press conference. At this point, we do not feel that clear announcements have been made about what they want to do in the long run. “
For the possibility of finding a solution that unites all sides: “I think that’s the only way. We believe this. When we talk about teams, big names, I can’t imagine this possible league without us. Can we talk about the “best possible product” without the Euroleague teams, their fans, our markets, our culture, the passion and the story that all have been carrying for decades? For our part, we are always ready to sit down and discuss, to explore together the best solution to offer everyone an even better product than what European basketball offers today. “
For EuroLeague’s position on NBA Europe: “No one has expressed a desire or has said that he is thinking of leaving the championship. And certainly not for something that remains so unclear today. Of course, when the NBA comes, everyone wants to hear what they have to say, including us. We respect them, they have the best championship in the world. But we have renewed with our partner IMG and the clubs are committed. Our DNA, the driving force of basketball, are the fans, the culture, the atmosphere, the history, everything we have in Euroleague that is incomparable and impossible to copy. European basketball is a way of life, a feeling. “
Whether there is a fear that Euroleague will disappear: “(He laughs) Don’t wait for me to tell you that. I don’t see any risk of extinction. We have a clear plan, full of opportunities to explore. “
For the risk of splitting like 2000 with Euroleague and Supproleague: “In 2015 we experienced something similar to the Champions League, a FIBA event. There were waves, but we remained the best event. The worst scenario for European basketball would be for the fans not to understand the system, what league does what, what is the difference. The best scenario would be to create a clear pyramid system that will protect European players and hierarchy all European basketball, starting from the base and the coaching camp. So that everyone will grow and European basketball gets a new dimension. “
Source: Sport Fm
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