EuroLeague CEO Chus Bueno opens door to NBA alliance amid European expansion talks
Strategic partnership - The newly appointed EuroLeague CEO, Chus Bueno, doesn't rule out an alliance between EuroLeague and the NBA as the North American league continues studying a European expansion project targeting 2027.
Former NBA executive Chus Bueno aims to bridge the gap between the EuroLeague and the NBA Photo credit DR
Appointed as EuroLeague CEO at the end of January, Chus Bueno granted an interview to Marca to detail his vision for the future of European basketball. The former NBA vice-president for Europe, Africa and Middle East for nearly thirteen years knows the international ecosystem perfectly.
In a context where the NBA is studying the creation of a European project, Chus Bueno believes collaboration between EuroLeague and the North American league remains a real possibility.
A collaborative approach over competition
While the NBA is currently exploring the possibility of launching a competition or structure in Europe, Chus Bueno advocates for a joint approach instead. According to him, the arrival of significant capital in European basketball could be a major opportunity.
« If the NBA can raise 2 billion or even 5 billion dollars and enter the European basketball ecosystem, that’s good news, » he explained to Marca. « Basketball has never had so much money available. The question is how to maximize this opportunity. »
The executive believes that multiplying competing projects could be counterproductive. « Fragmentation burns money. It’s better to explore what we can do together. »
When directly asked about an alliance between EuroLeague and the NBA, he didn’t hesitate: « Of course it’s possible. Absolutely. » According to him, discussions could really begin once the NBA has completed its analysis of the European market and its investment possibilities.
Waiting for clarity from historic clubs
Chus Bueno’s arrival at the head of EuroLeague comes at a strategic moment. The former NBA executive is perceived as a profile capable of bringing together different basketball governing bodies worldwide. « I’ve been at all the tables — including with FIBA — and this is a unique moment. My dream is to build an ecosystem that works for everyone. »
In this context, several situations remain pending, notably that of several historic EuroLeague clubs that haven’t yet formalized their long-term commitment. Among them are Real Madrid, Fenerbahce and ASVEL.
« We’re waiting for clarity in the next two or three weeks. I’m counting on the three clubs. Real Madrid is the most important brand in European basketball, » Bueno stated.
EuroLeague is also looking toward new markets. Several cities and investors from the Middle East are currently studying the possibility of joining the competition. « EuroLeague generates strong interest, not just in Abu Dhabi. When we consider expansion, we’ll evaluate each case individually. »
Finally, the question of Russian clubs’ return remains tied to the evolution of the geopolitical situation. « I admire CSKA. If the conflict ends and conditions normalize, we’d be delighted to see them again. »
Sylvain Sultat follows the NBA on a daily basis, covering individual performances, team dynamics, and the league's greatest stories. On Be-Basketball, he breaks down the latest American basketball news with passion and consistency, always on the lookout for the trends shaping the world of basketball.
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