EuroLeague Expansion Decision Looms for Hapoel Tel Aviv, Jerusalem
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
The EuroLeague's 13 founding members will decide today on expanding the league and introducing a franchise model, potentially offering new licenses to clubs like Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem. These licenses would require a significant financial investment, and failure to secure one could lead to alternative pathways like the EuroCup or a proposed NBA Europe league.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- EuroLeague founding members meet today to decide on league expansion and new franchise licenses.
- Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem are among clubs vying for the new permanent licenses.
- Licenses are estimated to cost 50 to 90 million euros and grant equal rights to founding members.
- Failure to get a license could lead to participation in the EuroCup or a potential NBA Europe league.
- Maccabi Tel Aviv's chairman supports Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem's bid for licenses.
A crucial decision regarding the expansion of the EuroLeague and the adoption of a franchise model is set to be made today, October 26th. Thirteen founding members of the league will convene to discuss granting eight new permanent franchise licenses. Approximately thirteen other clubs, including Israeli teams Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem, are vying for these spots. The league is expected to comprise 24 teams next season, likely under a new format.
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. If granted, these licenses will not guarantee a place in the EuroLeague but rather the opportunity to purchase one, similar to the NBA's franchise system. European estimates suggest a license could cost between 50 to 90 million euros, depending on its duration and the club. The founding members, including Maccabi Tel Aviv, will convert their current status into similar franchises. While new franchises will have equal voting rights and revenue shares, the substantial fees paid by them will benefit the founding clubs, potentially widening the financial gap.
The meeting will include representatives from founding clubs such as Anadolu Efes, Baskonia, Barcelona, Fenerbahce, Maccabi Tel Aviv, Milan, Olympiacos, Panathinaikos, Real Madrid, Villeurbanne, Bayern Munich, Zalgiris Kaunas, and the suspended CSKA Moscow. It remains unclear if a vote will occur or if a final decision will be reached today.
Should Hapoel Tel Aviv and Hapoel Jerusalem not secure EuroLeague licenses, their path to the competition will be significantly more challenging. The EuroLeague is expected to have 20 to 21 licensed teams, with potential additional spots for the finalists of the EuroCup. If CSKA Moscow is reinstated, only one "wild card" spot might remain. The EuroCup itself could become a stronger league, attracting teams that miss out on EuroLeague licenses. Future expansion to 28 teams is possible, potentially leading to more franchise opportunities. A "waiting list" for clubs like Hapoel Tel Aviv or Hapoel Jerusalem is also a possibility.
An alternative pathway being considered is NBA Europe, a potential league set to launch in 2027/28 with 12 permanent franchises. This league aims to establish teams in major European markets, and Hapoel Jerusalem might have an advantage due to its religious significance. The NBA is expected to approach top clubs that do not receive EuroLeague licenses.
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