By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
FIBA issued a press release about yesterday’s meeting in Geneva which for the moment doesn’t clarify anything on the possible creation of a rival to Euroleague competition. However the plan is about to be revealed and NBA will be a factor in the conflict between FIBA and Euroleague.
FIBA has decided to change the status quo of European competitions, because “the reform of the current club competitions is fundamental in promoting the nurturing of European talents, protecting the domestic championships and providing all clubs with a sound business model as well as participation in future decision-making processes within the FIBA structure. FIBA has initiated an open debate among clubs, fans, sponsors and other stakeholders about the future of basketball in Europe”.
This position is an answer to Bertomeu’s move to invite the top European clubs in Barcelona, however there’s more. According to Eurohoops sources the NBA is going to be a factor in the future of European competitions, not only because of the possibility of expansion, but also because of the possible support to a new FIBA Euro-league. The relationship between the top league of the world and FIBA is better than ever and the American side has many open issues that are FIBA-related, like the possibility of making the Olympics an U22 tournament and the new national team calendar. On the other hand, the NBA has the know how and the resources to help a new league thrive in Europe.