Eduardo Portela, former ACB president and European basketball pioneer, passes away at 91

11/06/202617:15

The longtime ACB executive played a key role in the modernization of Spanish basketball and was among the founders of ULEB and the EuroLeague.

The basketball world is mourning the passing of Eduardo Portela Marín, former ACB president from 1990 to 2013 and later honorary president of the association. Portela died at the age of 91, leaving a lasting legacy in both Spanish and European basketball.

Born in Barcelona on August 30, 1934, he began his career as a coach before moving into basketball management. He was instrumental in the creation of the Association of Clubs in 1982 and went on to lead the ACB for more than two decades, helping transform it into one of the most respected leagues in the world.

During his tenure, he introduced major innovations such as the playoff system, the modern Copa del Rey format and the Supercopa. He was also a co-founder and president of ULEB and one of the driving forces behind the creation of the EuroLeague.

The ACB and its clubs expressed their deepest condolences to Portela’s family and friends, honoring his immense contribution to the growth of the sport.

Rest in peace.