Author: Monojit Mandal
Gustavo de Conti, coach of Flamengo and the men’s national basketball team, deeply regretted the fight between the Brazilian Basketball Confederation (CBB) and Novo Basquete Brasil (NBB), saying that it represents a significant loss for the sport.
The disagreement began in September, when the CBB met with the International Basketball Federation (FIBA) to discuss the standards of Brazilian basketball. The seal of NBB national champion was abruptly withdrawn during that meeting. The fallout from this decision has thrown the next NBB season into disarray, leaving many teams and coaches apprehensive.
Despite the start of the current NBB season, which features a record nineteen teams, one major source of contention persists. The South American League clubs were disqualified from competing in the national championship, confusing the national basketball calendar.
Gustavo de Conti, a well-known figure in Brazilian basketball, addressed the issue, stating: “The result I hope for as a basketball professional is that everything calms down, everything is fine and everything is good for basketball. I can only speak technically. From an administrative point of view, I’m not aware of the problem; only the presidents and directors are aware and know who is correct and who is not. Technically, I see a big loss for Brazilian basketball.”
He also emphasized the need for peace and agreement, saying: “I can’t say who’s to blame for this, but I can say that it’s a technical loss for Brazilian basketball at the moment”. This can be reversed or result in considerable technological advances“.
The CBB is currently seeking instructions from FIBA on how to handle international vacancies this year. The World Federation’s forthcoming publication of world club competitions and regulations is at the heart of the controversy.
Helinho, the reigning NBB champion and Franca coach, advised both sides to find common ground, saying: “What I believe is that, for the good of basketball, it’s essential for both parties to talk, to reach a common denominator.” They’re just as enthusiastic about basketball as we are. So I believe we can turn lemons into lemonade and improve basketball“.
While the dispute between the CBB and the NBB continues, the future of Brazilian basketball remains unknown, with many hoping for a swift and peaceful conclusion between the parties involved.