European Basketball Leagues is deeply saddened by the passing of Eduardo Portela, one of the most influential executives in Spanish and European basketball.
A key figure in the creation and development of the ACB, Portela served as its president from 1990 to 2013 and played a decisive role in the modernisation and professionalisation of club basketball in Spain. At European level, he was a co-founder of ULEB — now European Basketball Leagues — and served as its president from 1998 to 2016, before becoming honorary president.
His vision, dedication and commitment helped shape the structure of professional basketball in Europe. European Basketball Leagues extends its sincere condolences to his family, friends and the entire basketball community.