EuroLeague Basketball CEO Paulius Motiejunas talked about the competitions future, problems with the London Lions, and his relationship with Dimitris Giannakopoulos.
As we approach the end of the 2023-24 EuroLeague season, discussions are continuing about the future of the league regarding new teams and other issues.
In an interview with selected European media, EuroLeague Basketball CEO Paulius Motiejunas talked about his long-term vision for the league, the situation with a team from London, and meeting up with Dimitris Giannakopoulos, the owner of Panathinaikos AKTOR Athens.
"It's about how we will unlock the league's potential. We are working with possible investors, and you know our plan about markets like Berlin, London, and Paris, where they are doing a great job," explained Motiejunas.
Dejan Bodiroga also chipped in on the matter of a possible expansion of the EuroLeague. The EuroLeague legend also revealed that they received an offer from Abu Dhabi to host the Final Four.
"There's big potential in the Middle East, it's true that we have an offer to go to Abu Dhabi for three Final Four, but we may soon have another option in the Middle East," he said. "And, of course, there's Dubai. Everyone in the League is positive about Dubai, however, we need to find the right timing for them."
One expansion potential that was often mentioned was the situation of the London Lions and Paris Basketball, which have been participating in the EuroCup for the last two seasons.
Although both teams intend to become a EuroLeague squad, they have some red flags surrounding them.
"Let's talk in a year," said Motiejunas. "[Paris Basketball] is doing a great job on a market where things are not easy for European basketball, but being in the EuroLeague is like becoming a Formula 1 driver," he said, noting that Paris's entry is not certain even if after them winning the EuroCup this year.
Things are looking a bit more dire for the London Lions. 777 Partners, which owns the Lions, is in serious financial trouble.
"It's bad, it's obviously a red flag, and we are not getting the answers we want," explained Motiejunas. "They have to convince us [to keep competing in the EuroCup]."
Finally, the CEO talked about meeting with Giannakopoulos, who has often dominated headlines with his antics and unorthodox and controversial behavior.
"We had a meeting, and he is a great guy, but of course, on some occasions, better emotional control is needed," Motiejunas said.
"Dimitris and his family have given a lot to European basketball for decades. We respect that, and we also need to protect the competition," concluded Dejan Bodiroga, extending goodwill to Giannakopoulos and PAO.
The 2023-24 EuroLeague season will end Sunday with the third-place game and the championship game.
