Gran Canaria president explains decision to turn down EuroLeague / News - Basketnews.com

Workload and expenses were cited as key factors.

Credit: Rodolfo Molina/Euroleague Basketball via Getty Images Credit Rodolfo Molina/Euroleague Basketball via Getty Images

Gran Canaria president Sitapha Savane addressed the media and discussed the Board of Director's decision not to participate in the EuroLeague next season, despite winning the EuroCup this past campaign.

2-pointers this season

59%19,0Points made:19,0Accuracy:59,0%Place in standings:15Record max:27Record min:13Most made 2FGs:Damien InglisTeamEuroCupStatisticsSchedule

Savane characterized the decision to forgo the prestigious competition as "an act of responsibility rather than misplaced bravery."

The top executive emphasized that joining the EuroLeague would substantially increase the team's workload.

"Transitioning to the EuroLeague entails a significant increase in the number of games, moving from 18 to 34. In the EuroCup, teams enjoy a 3-day break between games, while in the EuroLeague, it's typically reduced to just two days," he said.

"Moreover, there are seven double-round weeks during the EuroLeague season, with teams playing three games within a span of five days. To cope with such demanding schedules, charter flights become a necessity. To illustrate this point, consider the case of Valencia Basket, whose budget increased from €500,000 to €1,500,000 upon joining the EuroLeague. In our case, the projected increase would be even higher, estimated at €2,025,000."

Savane further elaborated on the limited financial rewards associated with competing in the EuroLeague.

"The revenue is divided into three parts: a fixed amount of half a million euros, from which arbitration expenses are deducted. Then, the second part is based on performance, ranging from €1,800,000 to approximately €200,000 for 14th place. The last four teams do not receive anything," Savane underlined.

"Furthermore, let's not forget about the allocation of benefits derived from television rights and sponsorships, which amounts to a substantial 45 million euros. However, this sum is exclusively distributed among the A-license teams, leaving no room for others to get the money. Take ALBA Berlin, for example, which was the lowest-ranking team this past season, securing a modest sum of €350,000."

As Gran Canaria officially announcedthey are not going to participate in next season's EuroLeague,Valencia Basketemerge as clear favorites to secure a spot in the tournament, according toBasketNews' Donatas Urbonas.

The final list of participants for the 2023-24 EuroLeague season will be confirmed during the General Assembly in July.

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