By Eurohoops team / info@eurohoops.net
Dejan Bodiroga expressed confidence in Partizan and Crvena zvezda’s long-term EuroLeague future as the competition prepares to expand and introduce franchises.
Speaking on “Radar Forum,” the EuroLeague president confirmed that both Belgrade clubs were among those that submitted binding offers to become franchises.
“Both clubs have a very good standing with our board. Through this process, their involvement and fulfilling all the requirements, I think they have very good chances of being in the EuroLeague,” Bodiroga said. “Simply put, I see them as long-term EuroLeague partners.”
Their applications form part of a broader restructuring, with Bodiroga outlining plans to expand from 20 to 24 teams next season and replace the current round-robin format with two conferences.
“We haven’t yet determined the criteria for forming those conferences,” he explained. “Franchises are also coming. There is significant interest and plenty of offers, from teams in the EuroCup and others outside it. They have submitted binding offers expressing their desire to become EuroLeague members.”
Bodiroga described the recent shareholders’ meeting in Italy as an important step toward those changes, pointing to growing attendance, television audiences and commercial interest.
“The EuroLeague has never been stronger than it is today,” he said. “We are growing and progressing according to our plan.”
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