Credits IPA Agency
Dimitris Itoudis, current coach ofHapoel IBI Tel Aviv, recently shared his vision for the future of European basketball in an interview with Eurohoops. With a career full of successes, including two EuroLeague titles, Itoudis expressed his desire to see NBA, Euroleague and FIBA collaborate to create a stronger and more united European championship.
His proposal includes the creation of a 30-team league supported by the major organizations in world basketball.
The goal is not only to join forces, but also to raise the level of the game in Europe, making it more competitive and attractive for fans, sponsors, and players. Itoudis emphasized how collaboration between these entities can create a more cohesive, modern, and opportunity-rich ecosystem.
An ambitious project for continental basketball
Dimitris Itoudis’s vision is for a European basketball more global, connected and competitiveAccording to the Greek coach, a unified championship would allow for an increase in the quality of the game and international visibility, creating a sporting product capable of competing with the NBA.
Hapoel Tel Aviv: A season of protagonists
During the season 2025-26, Hapoel Tel Aviv started with a record of 8-3, finishing first in the EuroLeague.
Itoudis highlighted the importance of a deep, competitive, and well-integrated roster, highlighting how the team is working to coexist in a high-pressure environment.
During the interview with Eurohoops, he also confirmed that discussions are already underway on a new top-tier European league, which could include 30 teams. For Itoudis, this is a a fundamental step for the future of European basketball.
An increasingly competitive European context
Teams are looking for talent, investment, and a structure capable of supporting a modern model. Itoudis acknowledged his team’s progress, but also the challenges of building a winning team in such a competitive environment. He also made it clear that his dream is to see NBA, Euroleague, and FIBA at the same table to plan a unified championship.
“Basketball needs a boost”, he declared, emphasizing the beauty of sport and the importance of investments.
His vision is not only about expanding the competition, but also about the will to unite different cultures and nationalities through sport.
Its staff includes members of 12 different nationalities, a concrete example of how “sport unites”.
According to Itoudis, a unified European championship would guarantee:
greater global visibility
a more solid competitive structure
a more attractive sports product for sponsors and broadcasters
As Hapoel Tel Aviv continues to compete in the EuroLeague, Itoudis focuses on building a team cohesive, modern and ambitious.
The next test for Hapoel will be againstEA7 Emporio Armani Milan, a match that could show how well Itoudis’ technical project is working.
The realization of his dream of uniting NBA, Euroleague and FIBA It may not be immediate, but his ideas are already sparking significant debate in the basketball world. With his experience, passion, and leadership, Itoudis continues to be a key figure for the future of European basketball.