By Arma Kaynar / info@eurohoops.net
Besiktas President Serdal Adalı (photo), speaking about the club’s plans for the basketball branch during the club assembly, emphasized that they are pursuing both sporting success and financial discipline, aiming for a spot in the EuroLeague sooner rather than later.
Stating that the black-and-white club has regained a strong identity in basketball, Adalı noted that the steps taken are a concrete indication of this.
Adalı praised coach Dusan Alimpijevic and outlined the club’s main vision with these words: “Our main goal is to make Beşiktaş a permanent brand at the EuroLeague level without compromising financial discipline. This process, which combines managerial stability with sporting success, is only the beginning of the great achievements we aim for in basketball.”
Touching upon the basketball infrastructure and facilities, Serdal Adalı announced that the club is planning a comprehensive transformation in the approximately 20-acre area surrounding the existing arena as part of a wider construction project. Adalı stated that when the project is completed, Akatlar will become a major center for basketball, handball, and volleyball, adding that the architectural and engineering tender is ongoing and construction will begin in stages after the preparations are finished.
However, Besiktas is denying the reports about a meeting with the EuroLeague, with the Turkish club aiming to replace ASVEL.
Basketball branch manager Özkan Arseven made the following statement: “In recent days, claims circulating on some social media accounts and foreign-sourced platforms that Beşiktaş will take ASVEL’s place in the EuroLeague are completely unfounded. On behalf of Beşiktaş JK Basketball, there is no board decision taken in this direction, no application made, no official contact conducted with the EuroLeague organization, or any concrete offer communicated to us. Our club’s goals, planning, and potential processes regarding international organizations are addressed in line with the club’s own internal evaluations, sporting and financial realities, and the procedures of official authorities. Such matters cannot be served to the public as assumptions and wishes outside of our club’s knowledge and approval. We kindly request that the public give credence only to statements made from official sources on behalf of our club.”
After all, Besiktas can earn the right to play next season in the EuroLeague by winning the EuroCup.