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During the inauguration of the 21st Pau Gasol Academy in Barcelona, the former NBA and EuroLeague sensation Pau Gasol discussed two crucial issues in the realm of international basketball: the possibility of the NBA expanding into Europe and the increasing trend of young European athletes moving to U.S. college basketball programs.
Regarding the potential expansion of the NBA into Europe, Gasol expressed a measured sense of hope:
“Efforts are underway; progress is being made. I observe initiatives aimed at enhancing the European basketball model, and this presents an opportunity for our sport to grow. We will have to see how this evolves and develops,” Gasol remarked, according to MARCA.
He underscored the necessity for reforms within European basketball structures:
“The European basketball landscape must adapt and improve. It’s economically unsustainable, with most teams operating at a loss,” Gasol pointed out, noting his “privileged position” to facilitate communication between the two basketball worlds.
When discussing the trend of young European athletes pursuing NCAA scholarships, Gasol recognized the obstacles that local clubs encounter:
“This is one of FIBA’s main concerns—establishing regulations and protective measures. If a player opts to leave, there ought to be some compensation for their training rights. This is a new challenge that has not been previously encountered.”
He also highlighted that “significant financial offers” are being made that local teams simply “cannot match.”
“That’s a critical element that’s currently lacking. I would like to see an emphasis on long-term projects. Presently, the focus is largely on short-term gains, leaving players with little consistency,” he reflected.
