EuroLeague Officials See Potential for Return to Israel
Translated & summarized from Mako by baba
EuroLeague and EuroCup games may return to Israel following a visit by league officials, according to Gal Mekel, co-owner of Hapoel Jerusalem. Mekel expressed optimism that the officials understood the conditions in Israel are suitable for hosting games. He hopes the league will approve the return, similar to recent decisions made for Dubai. Hapoel Jerusalem is also actively pursuing a franchise license for the league's expansion.
The story in 6 lines · by baba
- EuroLeague and EuroCup games may return to Israel after league officials visited the country.
- Gal Mekel, co-owner of Hapoel Jerusalem, is optimistic about the potential return of games.
- League officials reportedly found conditions in Israel suitable for hosting games.
- The decision for games to return to Israel now depends on political considerations.
- Hapoel Jerusalem is strongly pursuing a franchise license for the EuroLeague's expansion.
- A decision on the franchise is expected within the next few months.
EuroLeague and EuroCup games may soon return to Israel, following a visit by league officials to the country. Gal Mekel, co-owner of Hapoel Jerusalem, expressed optimism about the possibility after meeting with league representatives and officials from Maccabi and Hapoel Tel Aviv.
Mekel stated that the primary goal of the visit was to bring games back to Israel, and he believes the league officials enjoyed their 24-hour stay, experiencing the local atmosphere and observing that conditions are suitable for hosting games. He indicated that the decision now rests on the political aspects of facilitating the return.
"I really hope that [EuroLeague CEO] Bodiroga knows how to convey this," Mekel said, emphasizing that Israel offers a quiet and safe environment comparable to other host locations like Dubai. He hopes the process for Israel will mirror the one undertaken for Dubai, where concerns were addressed through discussions with players' associations, shareholders, coaches, and managers, ultimately leading to a decision to play there.
Regarding Hapoel Jerusalem's pursuit of a franchise license, Mekel confirmed the team is strongly in contention. He noted that the majority of team owners favor expanding the league with a franchise model, focusing on the EuroLeague rather than the NBA Europe model. Mekel believes Hapoel Jerusalem has a place in this future structure, offering significant value.
He anticipates that a decision on the franchise could be made within the next few months, stressing that securing a long-term partnership with the EuroLeague involves more than just wins and losses. It requires demonstrating the capabilities, desire, patience, and added value that Hapoel Jerusalem can provide.
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