By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
After playing inspired basketball in Piraeus, Monaco tied the playoffs series against Olympiacos and has more than a chance to make it to the Final Four.
However, even if the EuroLeague newcomers don’t make it, you should expect to see them compete regularly in the top EuroLeague level for years to come.
Officially the budget of the team as announced this season, per French league regulations, is a total of 13,5 million euros, with half of them, 6,7 millions to be exact, being net salaries for the players. This number may not include Mike James’ contract who was a late addition just before the start of the season.
However, this number is expected to rise to new levels. The duo of Russian born president Alexey Fedorychev and Ukrainian Vice President of Sports Operations Sergey Dyadechko are aiming for a budget that will skyrocket to 18 million euros just for salaries – presumably including taxes – which will push Monaco to the upper echelon of the EuroLeague big spenders.
So no matter what will happen from now on in the playoffs series against Olympiacos, Monaco has the ability to keep its core intact and even add more top players for next season.
Considering also the fact that Monaco is one of the best places in the world to live, top players will have the choice to enjoy a unique lifestyle and also compete in the highest level.