sports
Čović: We disrespect our domestic league and expect others to respect it
Changes - starting from the NCAA NIL contract, to the influence of the NBA league's interests on the Old Continent, causally linked turbulence in the Euroleague, have also affected the game under the basket in Serbia in an unfavorable position. The Basketball Federation presented the concept of a Professional National League in 2025, the clubs did not readily accept the proposal, while the umbrella organization adopted the Proposal for a contract on entrusting tasks in organizing competitions between KSS and the Association of KLS clubs at the session of the Management Board on April 28.
TL;DR
- The Basketball Federation of Serbia (KSS) has presented a proposal for a Professional National League in 2025, but clubs have not fully accepted it.
- KSS President Nebojša Čović is pushing for a new contract to regulate relationships with the Association of KLS clubs, emphasizing legal compliance.
- Čović refutes claims that the Federation aims to control clubs, stating the goal is to improve quality and operate legally.
- He criticizes alleged political manipulation by league director Grujin, who reportedly threatens clubs with loss of funding.
- Changes to the league structure, including expansion to 24 clubs, are being pushed, which Čović believes would be detrimental.
- There are identified conflicts of interest within the KSS Management Board, with several members holding dual roles.
- Čović stresses the urgent need for agreement and a reduction in the number of clubs to twelve to foster player development.
- He highlights the audience's interest in domestic rivalries and the potential for clubs to compete with richer teams.
- Čović also touches on the importance of prioritizing the domestic league over regional competitions and discusses the transfer of domestic players.