Zeljko Obradovic is a powerful voice in European basketball. The coach of Partizan Belgrade has a resume that speaks for itself, having won nine EuroLeague titles with five different clubs but also four Olympic, World and European medals.
In a recent interview with French outlet L’Equipe, the Serbian technician referred to the European basketball calendar and did not mince his words.
“There are too many games between international windows and clubs", he confided. while he further urged FIBA, Euroleague to discuss the schedule.
Although Obradovic admits that he is “proud” of his players joining their national teams, he adds that “they came back mentally tired," something which takes a toll on the level of his practice sessions.
In order to find a solution, the 61-year-old coach calls on FIBA and the Euroleague to put aside their differences and “discuss the schedule, the number of teams”.
But, beyond that, the Partizan Belgrade coach is putting forward an idea that could cause controversy.
“It is necessary that teams participating in a closed league only join the play-offs of their national championships so that the sponsors and the televisions are found there”, he affirms.
In his eyes, the calendar of European clubs should consist of six months of EuroLeague, two months devoted to the play-offs of the national championships but also two months dedicated to the national teams.
But above all, Zeljko Obradovic campaigns for leaving “two months of rest for the players”, who are very busy with a schedule that is not infinitely extendable.
