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Fenerbahçe and NBA in Europe: « We are seeking the ideal path »
NBA Europe - Fenerbahçe's General Manager discusses NBA's growing interest in Europe. Derya Yannier states that the Turkish club is involved in all discussions regarding the future of European basketball.
Photo Credit : Sébastien Grasset
The expansion of the NBA in Europe continues to generate discussion in the basketball world. Derya Yannier, General Manager of Fenerbahçe Istanbul, addressed this hot topic during a press conference announcing the club’s new sponsorship deal with RAMS.
Fenerbahçe involved in all discussions about European future
When asked about Fenerbahçe’s position regarding the league that the NBA wants to create in Europe and potential offers received by the club, Yannier took a cautious but transparent approach. « This has been a topic of discussion for some time. We are going through an unusual period for European basketball. It’s not possible to say anything definitive now about how this will take shape, and honestly, nobody knows », stated the Turkish executive.
The General Manager confirmed Fenerbahçe’s active involvement in ongoing negotiations. « What I can say is that we are involved in all discussions. Our priority is to find the right formula for European basketball, as ensuring the sport’s future on this continent takes the right direction is one of our greatest responsibilities », he specified.
Yannier also emphasized the dual approach adopted by the Istanbul club during this period of uncertainty. « At the same time, we are trying both to help guide the process and find the ideal path for Fenerbahçe’s best interests. It seems everything will take shape in the coming months. We will all see together how this unfolds », he concluded.
These statements come as rumors of NBA expansion in Europe multiply, with several top European clubs mentioned as potential candidates. Fenerbahçe, with its strong track record and popularity, naturally figures among the teams likely to interest the North American league in its internationalization plans. To date, the club has not renewed its A license with EuroLeague, like ASVEL, Real Madrid, and FC Barcelona. This suggests their departure for this new league is possible.
Sylvain Sultat suit la NBA au quotidien, entre performances individuelles, dynamiques collectives et grandes histoires de la ligue. Sur BeBasket, il décrypte l’actualité américaine avec passion et régularité, toujours à l’affût des tendances qui font bouger le monde du basket.
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