EuroLeague announces 10-year growth plan and expansion to 24 teams

EuroLeague Basketball has officially approved a 10-year business plan, supported by its 13 shareholder clubs, aimed at significantly increasing commercial revenue and team valuations. The organization rejected a partnership proposal from the NBA, opting instead for a franchise-based expansion model. Under this strategy, the league aims to reach 648 million euros in annual commercial revenue by the 10th year and distribute 3.4 billion euros to participating clubs over the decade, funded by 2.2 billion in revenue and 1.2 billion in franchise fees. Projections suggest the total value of licensed clubs could triple to 5.4 billion euros, while the league's value is expected to grow 5.7 times to 7.98 billion euros.

CEO Dejan Bodiroga confirmed that the league will expand from 20 to 24 teams starting next season, utilizing a two-conference system. While specific criteria for the new structure are pending, reports indicate that PAOK, Valencia, Paris, and Dubai BC are among the primary candidates for franchise acquisitions, with decisions expected in early November. This expansion follows a record-breaking year for the league, which saw over 3.3 million in-arena fans and 500 million television viewers during the previous season.