Dimitris Itoudis Hopes Euroleague Expands to 30 Teams with Conferences and Playoffs

Dimitris Itoudis, the legendary coach of Panathinaikos and many other European teams, has publicly expressed his deep hope for the development of the Euroleague. He emphasizes that the current 20-team league is in a necessary transitional phase, and expansion to 30 teams would be a natural step forward. According to Itoudis, the new structure should include separate divisions and a playoff system, rather than ending the season with a single final game. He states that this would help the league achieve greater financial stability, while providing longer playing opportunities for teams and players. Regarding the future, Itoudis hopes that the league will end with a playoff instead of a final game. He also expresses a desire to witness this development for at least ten more years. According to him, expansion would create conditions for the return of Russian teams, which have been absent for some time due to international circumstances. This would not only increase the depth of competition but also strengthen Euroleague's position on the European basketball map. The Euroleague is currently operating with 20 teams, but according to Itoudis, this is too small a number compared to its potential. He believes that with 30 teams, the divisions would create greater fairness in competition, reducing the early dominance by top teams. The divisions would allow teams to focus on play styles suited to the dense schedule. Playoffs would bring higher competitiveness, encouraging teams to maintain consistent performance throughout the season. Itoudis emphasizes that this expansion would bring clear financial benefits. With more teams, the number of fans, players, coaches, and referees would increase, opening new income sources from broadcasting rights, ticket sales, and advertising contracts. He believes this would help teams achieve better financial autonomy, reducing the financial pressure often faced by some European clubs. Furthermore, the return of Russian teams would add thrilling matches, increasing viewer appeal across Europe. In the context of FIBA's approval for players, athletes, and referees to participate, this is a positive signal for team inclusion. Itoudis views this as a necessary step to achieve the pinnacle status of basketball. He hopes that with FIBA's support, the league will continue to develop sustainably. A deeper analysis shows that Itoudis has closely followed the league's development for many years. He believes that expansion would reduce the early dominance by top teams, creating a fiercer rivalry in the divisions. Divisions would force teams to compete continuously, improving overall match quality. Playoffs would be the reward for teams with consistent performance, rather than abruptly ending the season. Financially, Itoudis believes that with 30 teams, revenues would diversify. More teams would bring in income from events, international broadcasting rights, and brand partnerships. This would help teams avoid frequent financial shortages. Additionally, the return of Russian teams would add appeal, increasing audience numbers and regional revenues. Itoudis also hopes that with the expansion, the league would have high-quality coaches and referees. Divisions would allow time for young talent development, while providing a stage for new coaches. Playoffs would reinforce the league's professional status, where teams must prove their form through multiple games. He stresses that this is his personal and professional aspiration, hoping it will become reality. Itoudis believes that with this development, Euroleague will continue to be the top destination for European basketball. He hopes the league will exist for a long time, at least ten more years, to see many generations of players and coaches mature. To achieve the 30-team goal, all parties need close coordination. FIBA and league management need to consider carefully to ensure fairness and competition. Divisions would help divide teams by region or playing style, creating momentum for individual development. Playoffs would be the culmination of the season, bringing joy to fans and motivation for teams. Regarding international aspects, the return of Russian teams would help Euroleague expand its influence. Matches would bring diversity in playing styles, from Russia's defensive approach to modern methods. This would enrich the league, attracting more fans from many countries. Itoudis affirms that he will try to participate to support this development. He hopes that with 30 teams, the league will achieve financial stability, helping teams develop long-term. Divisions would require new strategies, focusing on development. Playoffs would challenge top teams. Itoudis believes this is an opportunity for European basketball to explode. To achieve this dream, consensus from teams is needed. It would bring many benefits, from finance to competition. Itoudis hopes that Euroleague will continue to develop, becoming the world's top league. This expansion would affect many aspects. New teams would have opportunities to participate, bringing new vitality. Divisions would help balance, helping weaker teams develop. Playoffs would be the highlight of the season, bringing joy to everyone. Itoudis emphasizes that he believes in this development. He hopes that Euroleague will reach 30 teams, with divisions and playoffs. This would bring greater financial stability and higher competition. The league will continue to be the pride of European basketball. In the international context, FIBA has supported, opening doors for participation. This is a necessary step for Euroleague's growth. Itoudis hopes the league will continue to mature, bringing value to European basketball. Teams will need to prepare for the change. Divisions would require new strategies, focusing on development. Playoffs would test teams' superiority. Itoudis believes this is the opportunity for European basketball to thrive. In summary, Itoudis is a strong supporter of expansion. He hopes Euroleague will reach 30 teams, with divisions and playoffs. This would bring financial stability and higher competition. The league will continue to be the pride of European basketball.