Jordi Bertomeu: Match BC Khimki – Benetton is worthy of Euroleague14 january 2009

On Tuesday the General Director of Euroleague came to Khimki. He met with the leaders of BC Khimki and visited the match of Eurocup – BC Khimki – Benetton. The arrival of so important person was of great interest among Russian Media. In long break Bertomeu gave interview to official web-site of BC Khimki.

— I like this match, — said the Euroleague General Director. — It is noticeable, that the level of Khimki is higher, but Benetton plays with dignity.Basketball, that we watch today, is of Euroleague level. Only the names of players are worth a lot – Delfino, Garbajosa, Palacio, Soragna… And coaches? Sergio Scariolo and Oktay Mahmuti are among best coaches of Europe.

What can you say about the atmosphere on the match?
— I am impressed by the atmosphere. The sold-out stadium, fans support very well teams. Everything is on the high level. But I expected to find so great atmosphere in Basketball Center of Moscow Region.

Is it your first visit to Khimki?
— Yes. Frankly speaking, earlier I wasn’t a frequent guests on the Eurocup matches. Now we are going to extend the format of Euroleague. And I should visit the matches of clubs-pretenders. Among them, of course, BC Khimki and Benetton.


When the decision about new format will be made?
— In February, but the exact date I can’t say. We want that there will be more delegates from different countries and the decision became impartial.