European basketball is on the brink of a potential shake-up, and the name Jordi Bertomeu is back in the mix!
Former Euroleague Basketball president and CEO, Jordi Bertomeu, is reportedly plotting a return to the European basketball scene. This news, originally reported by meridian sport’s Djordje Matic, signals a potential shift in the landscape of the sport.
Bertomeu's return comes at a time when the future of European basketball is somewhat uncertain. The partnership between the NBA and FIBA, often referred to as NBA Europe, is aiming to create a new top-tier league in Europe. Bertomeu has expressed his skepticism about this project. But here's where it gets interesting: instead of getting involved in a new league, Bertomeu is reportedly looking to invest in undervalued European clubs.
He plans to team up with Demis Torres of RideOut and other companies to establish the first Multi-Club Ownership (MCO) model in European basketball. This innovative approach aims to bring several teams under a single ownership structure, fostering growth across various aspects, including improved youth programs and better financial management.
This MCO model could potentially connect at least three teams, with an estimated value of around 35 million euros. The project is eyeing opportunities in the Balkans, as well as Western European countries like France, Spain, Italy, and Germany.
Bertomeu's previous experience includes his instrumental role in launching Euroleague Basketball back in 2000, leading to the creation of a new top-tier league in Europe, the EuroLeague. He served as the first CEO, later taking on the roles of chairman in 2009 and president in 2011. However, his tenure ended in 2021 when clubs/shareholders voted to remove him from the CEO position.
Could this MCO model revolutionize European basketball? What are your thoughts on this potential new direction for the sport? Share your opinions in the comments below!
