Photo: EuroLeague

EuroLeague Basketball CEO Chus Bueno outlined long-term development plans for multiple clubs, including PAOK, Aris, Bourg, Monaco, and several French organizations, during the Final Four press conference in Athens on Saturday, May 23.

Bueno emphasized that discussions with PAOK and Aris remain active, with both Greek clubs identified as candidates for structured progression through European competitions. “There are some clubs we want to support and develop so they can reach the top level,” he said.

He explained a staged pathway model, where clubs could spend multiple seasons in the EuroCup before being considered for EuroLeague entry. “We are discussing how to do that, perhaps five years in the EuroCup, and if in three years they are ready, they move up to the EuroLeague,” Bueno said.

The EuroLeague executive stressed that progression depends on readiness rather than timing alone. “Only when they are ready, not before,” he added. The approach includes access via EuroCup and potential future franchise opportunities for qualifying organizations.

French clubs were also addressed, with Bueno confirming ongoing conversations around long-term participation. ASVEL have already secured their extension, while Paris Basketball remains in discussions over potential expansion or franchise positioning. “Paris is a great club and a great organization,” he said, highlighting their growing presence in the French capital.

AS Monaco’s situation was described as conditional on financial stabilization. Bueno noted that the club must resolve outstanding obligations before returning to a secure competitive position. “They need to address their financial situation first, their debts,” he said, while acknowledging Monaco’s sporting value within the competition.

Bourg-en-Bresse was referenced in a development context following its EuroCup championship season. Bueno pointed to infrastructure as a key factor moving forward. “They have some challenges, including the arena situation,” he said, while still leaving the door open for future EuroCup integration or longer-term advancement.

Across the broader expansion framework, Bueno confirmed that EuroLeague is evaluating structural growth models, including possible increases to 22 or 24 teams and the introduction of a franchise system. He noted that multiple clubs have already submitted interest in joining the long-term project.

The CEO also reiterated that expansion decisions will be gradual and based on competitive and financial stability. The league is currently working through multiple internal assessments before setting a fixed timeline for structural change.

The Final Four in Athens, which will feature Olympiacos and Real Madrid in the championship game, serves as the backdrop for these strategic discussions as EuroLeague continues to shape its next competitive cycle.