Crvena Zvezda confirmed contacts with NBA representatives over the proposed NBA Europe project but stressed that securing long-term EuroLeague franchise status remains the club's priority.
Crvena Zvezda Meridianbet Belgrade president Zeljko Drcelic has confirmed that the Serbian club has held talks with NBA representatives regarding the proposed NBA Europe competition.
However, Drcelic stressed that Crvena Zvezda's current priority remains securing a long-term EuroLeague license and becoming a permanent franchise in Europe's leading club competition.
Crvena Zvezda held NBA Europe talks
When asked whether Crvena Zvezda had been contacted about potentially joining NBA Europe, Drcelic confirmed that discussions had taken place.
"There have been contacts," Drcelic told Meridian Sport.
The NBA and FIBA have continued exploring plans for a new European league, with several major markets and established basketball organizations potentially involved.
However, Drcelic believes it remains unclear whether clubs from Serbia would be included in the project.
"The most important thing is for NBA Europe to clearly determine whether there is a place for Serbian clubs," he said. "I have not heard that so far."
EuroLeague franchise remains priority
Despite the NBA Europe discussions, Drcelic made it clear that Crvena Zvezda remains committed to the EuroLeague.
"Crvena Zvezda has been part of the EuroLeague family since returning to the competition in 2013, without ever considering moving to the FIBA Basketball Champions League," he said.
"Our goal is to become a EuroLeague franchise, and Crvena Zvezda is first in line for that. We are working, negotiating, and fighting for our future."
Crvena Zvezda currently compete in the EuroLeague without being one of the competition's permanent shareholders.
Drcelic explained that securing a long-term agreement would provide the club with greater stability, voting rights, and a larger share of EuroLeague revenue.
Why franchise status matters
Crvena Zvezda currently do not have the same financial or decision-making rights as the EuroLeague's shareholder clubs.
"As a club, we currently have neither voting rights nor the right to receive funds as co-owners of the league," Drcelic explained.
The Serbian side is expected to receive money from a new fund based on results over the previous 10 years, television audiences, social media following, and attendance at home and away games.
However, Drcelic noted that the majority of EuroLeague revenue continues to be distributed among the competition's existing shareholders.
"The majority of the financial pool goes to the league's co-owners," he said.
"That is why the next step – becoming a franchise, securing a long-term contract, and achieving equal status with the existing 'privileged teams' – is extremely important for the club."
Drcelic believes franchise status would allow Crvena Zvezda to operate as an equal EuroLeague member, with both increased responsibilities and significantly greater commercial benefits.
"At that point, we would become an equal member, with our own obligations but also with rights and revenues that would not be insignificant," he concluded.
Play
If you like our content, please click here and add us as your preferred source. It helps us a lot, and we are committed to delivering you the very latest basketball news.