By Aris Barkas/ barkas@eurohoops.net
With the EuroLeague’s SuperCup tipping off today, Friday, in Abu Dhabi, big stories are developing off the court.
Telis Mistakidis, the ambitious owner of PAOK, is currently in the capital of the United Arab Emirates, holding meetings with Euroleague Basketball chief executive officer Chus Bueno and other key league shareholders.
While nothing has been officially finalized, Eurohoops sources indicate that the sentiment toward the Thessaloniki club is overwhelmingly positive. In fact, all signs now point to PAOK becoming the third Greek EuroLeague franchise, joining traditional powerhouses Panathinaikos Aktor and Olympiacos from the 2027–28 season.
Mistakidis has submitted a formal proposal to league officials that outlines a long-term plan, including the construction of a brand-new arena.
Bueno did not hide his admiration for the PAOK owner and his goals. He praised the 64-year-old businessman as a great guy with an incredible vision, stating that he wants to take PAOK to the top, transforming them into a leading force in the competition and ultimately making them the biggest team in Europe.
He additionally emphasized that Mistakidis is a very wealthy and dedicated man who truly loves basketball, noting that what PAOK is building represents a very strong and solid proposal.
While Bueno kept his cards close to his chest regarding a definitive timeline, the momentum is undeniably shifting.
Before making the projected leap to the top tier of the Old Continent, the Thessaloniki outfit will focus on immediate domestic upgrades and their upcoming continental campaign. For the 2026–27 campaign, PAOK is set to compete in the second-tier BKT EuroCup, where they will begin their journey in Group D of the Regular Season.
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