EuroLeague Set to Expand with New Franchise Model, Hapoel Teams Vie for Spots

The EuroLeague is poised for a significant transformation as its 13 founding members convene to discuss an expansion and a shift to a licensing model. The league is expected to offer eight new permanent franchise slots, with approximately 13 other clubs, including Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem, competing for these coveted positions. The expanded league will likely feature 24 teams starting next season, potentially in a format different from the current one.

Shimon Mizrahi, Chairman of Maccabi Tel Aviv and a long-standing influential figure in the EuroLeague, has indicated his support for Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem securing licenses, as reported by reporter Noa Poplinger. Under the proposed franchise model, similar to the NBA's system, teams do not automatically gain entry but rather pay a fee for the right to establish a presence. European estimates suggest these licenses could cost between 50 and 90 million euros, depending on the duration and the team. This revenue is expected to be distributed among the 13 founding members, potentially widening the financial gap between them and new franchises.

The 13 founding clubs, which include Maccabi Tel Aviv, will convert their existing statuses into identical franchise slots. While new franchises will have equal voting rights and revenue shares, the substantial initial payment will benefit the original members. The meeting will involve representatives from Anadolu Efes, Baskonia, Barcelona, Fenerbahçe, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Milan, Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, Real Madrid, Villeurbanne, Bayern Munich, Zalgiris Kaunas, and the suspended CSKA Moscow.

If Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem do not secure licenses, they, along with other clubs, will face a more challenging path to the EuroLeague. With 20 to 21 slots expected to be filled by licensed teams (including CSKA Moscow if reinstated), and the EuroLeague CEO Zoos Bonau's intention to include the two EuroCup finalists, only one or two wildcard spots might remain. The EuroCup champion is guaranteed a place in the EuroLeague regardless.

In scenarios where they miss out on EuroLeague licenses, Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem might compete in the EuroCup, which is expected to become a stronger league due to the potential financial incentives. The EuroLeague itself may eventually expand further to 28 teams, offering more franchise opportunities. A potential alternative for these teams, particularly Hapoel Jerusalem, could be the NBA's proposed European league, which is slated to launch in 2027-28 with 12 permanent franchises. The NBA is reportedly looking to establish teams in major European markets, and while Jerusalem's religious significance might offer an advantage, the league is expected to target high-profile teams and stars, potentially approaching top clubs that fail to secure EuroLeague licenses.