Maurizio Gherardini, recently appointed president of Lega Basket Serie A, emphasized the league’s intention to study the National Basketball Association’s (NBA) operational model as it seeks to expand its reach and influence, particularly within Europe. Gherardini made the comments following the conclusion of the Coppa Italia Final Eight tournament, signaling a strategic shift towards innovation and growth for Italian basketball.
Gherardini’s election as president, formalized on June 25, 2025, by the Lega Basket Serie A assembly, marks a three-year mandate beginning after the approval of the 2024-2025 season’s financial statements. He succeeded Umberto Gandini, who had previously held the position. The appointment was lauded by Giovanni Petrucci, president of the Italian Basketball Federation (FIP), who expressed confidence that Gherardini’s extensive experience would benefit Italian basketball at all levels.
The focus on the NBA model, as highlighted by Gherardini, extends beyond on-court performance. He indicated a desire to emulate the NBA’s success in media and communication, specifically mentioning the development of LBA TV as a central component of this strategy. “We are working to make LBA TV the channel of basketball,” he stated in an interview with TuttoSport, signaling a commitment to enhancing the league’s visibility and direct engagement with fans.
Gherardini’s career includes a significant period as general manager of Benetton Treviso, where he is credited with building the club into a prominent force in European basketball. He also served as general manager of Forlì for nine years prior to his tenure at Benetton Treviso. His executive achievements include two EuroLeague championships (2017, 2025), a Saporta Cup title (1999), and multiple championships and cup victories in both the Turkish and Italian leagues.
The Lega Basket Serie A president’s comments on studying the NBA come as the NBA continues to expand its presence in Europe, with regular-season games being played in cities like London, and Paris. This increased attention from the NBA presents both opportunities and challenges for European leagues like Serie A, prompting a proactive approach to strengthen their own position in the market.
Gherardini, who assumed office on June 25th, 2025, articulated a vision centered on “sharing, sustainability, visibility, and positivity” as guiding principles for his leadership. He acknowledged the significant changes occurring within the world of basketball and expressed his intention to assist clubs in navigating these transformations. The Lega Basket Serie A has not yet announced specific initiatives stemming from the study of the NBA model, and the league’s next scheduled assembly will address the implementation of modern strategies.
