Ilona Korstin, the general manager of the VTB League and a multi-medal winner at major international competitions, was a guest at the VTB Basket Cup in Laktasi, where she spoke exclusively to Basketball Sphere.
As part of the VTB Basket Cup, there are two teams from outside Russia participating. Along with CSKA, Zenit, Lokomotiv Kuban, Uralmash and Parma, Mega represents Serbia and Igokea represents Bosnia and Herzegovina.
“It is very important for the VTB League to have teams participating in this competition that are geographically outside Russia, especially because we are currently not playing in European competitions such as the EuroLeague, EuroCup or FIBA Champions League, so we lack that kind of experience. We decided to do everything possible to create an international competition.
Of course, it was difficult due to the situation that certainly doesn’t make things easier for us, but I am happy and satisfied, with special thanks to Igokea and Mega for accepting our invitation. It’s in everyone’s best interest, and we see it as a situation where both sides benefit — us as the VTB League and them as clubs because they get to compete against quality teams. We did a lot of work before the season started regarding all those negotiations, so we are glad they are here.” — said Ilona Korstin.
Among top Russian clubs, based on their budgets, CSKA, Zenit, Lokomotiv Kuban and UNICS could easily meet the requirements to be competitive in the EuroLeague, but because of the political situation, the suspension of Russian teams in European competitions still remains in effect. However, the VTB League continues to find ways to attract high-level players who choose Russia over the EuroLeague or EuroCup — and there are concrete reasons for that, as Korstin explained:
“We are trying — both as a league and clubs individually — to make sure every player feels comfortable, not only on the court during games but also in terms of practice and living conditions. We know how to maintain a high level and we have quality players. We can offer them excellent conditions; some truly love coming to Russia because they feel safe and they appreciate how well clubs take care of them.
Of course, without the EuroLeague, some clubs have reduced their budgets and some players choose teams that are part of that competition. Still, there are others who prefer coming to Russia and the VTB League because the level of basketball is high, the conditions are good, they play fewer games, and for some that makes it more acceptable — along with good contracts.”
There has been a lot of speculation recently about a potential NBA Europe project. Some clubs like Fenerbahce and Barcelona are negotiating new ten-year agreements with the EuroLeague, but are open to hearing proposals related to NBA Europe. Dimitris Itoudis previously told Basketball Sphere that his long-term vision is a 30-team elite EuroLeague. Is there any concern regarding the NBA Europe initiative, and how does the VTB League view the situation?
“You asked if we are concerned — honestly, we are not. We stopped looking at it that way. We continued working diligently to elevate the level of the VTB League. We have strict rules and we are not looking to increase the number of teams — simply put, quality over quantity, and our main priority is financial stability. Of course, we follow everything that is happening, we are in contact with the EuroLeague and the NBA, and we continue discussions with ULEB member clubs.
We are present in all meetings, whether online or in person, and we are aware that times are changing. From our side, I can say we are ready for any type of change, and I believe our teams have great organization and are fully capable of being part of any structure — NBA, EuroLeague, or NBA Europe. Our teams are not playing in the EuroLeague, but maybe they can play in another league that might be created soon. We are ready for a call to compete again at the highest level.”
Claim Now Ilona Korstin knows basketball from three different perspectives. During her playing career she won 10 medals at major world competitions (Olympic Games — two bronze, World Cup — two silver, EuroBasket — three gold and three silver). She also worked as a TV commentator hosting her own basketball show, and now she is a league executive. How does this three-layer experience help her in the role she has today?
“Experience from a professional basketball career helps a lot. First of all, I understand the game in the right way. Many people working as sports directors or in roles outside the court know their part of the job, but they don’t necessarily view basketball the same way I do. After my career, I worked in television as a commentator and produced my own show — that was another dimension. Now I am a manager and the director of the VTB League, so I understand everything — both on the court and behind the scenes.
My career helped me build many contacts and friendships that are necessary in this job. Most of them know me as a player, and now we meet again in new business challenges. Experience is always welcome, because it brings understanding. Throughout my career I studied and graduated with a degree in sports management. I had the prerequisites to do this job, I was ready when the moment came, and I believe I am well-prepared for everything that followed after my career.”
Another growing challenge in Europe — including Russia — is the departure of young players to the NCAA, often driven by multimillion-dollar offers. In the final part of the interview to Basketball Sphere, Ilona Korstin shared her perspective on the issue and sent a strong message emphasizing the importance of education:
“What I can tell active players is: never stop learning. Education is extremely important because a sports career doesn’t last that long — an injury can happen, and you must be prepared for Plan B. If you have that foundation, whatever happens in the future, you are ready. Former players can contribute a lot in jobs connected to basketball and everything beyond the court. My message to all young players is to keep learning.
This situation where big money is now involved and players leave their clubs to go to the NCAA is not fair, in my opinion. There should be an agreement between those clubs and the players when they leave, and I don’t think it has been handled in the right way. Many clubs suffer because they invest their own resources into developing young players — and then those players leave with no compensation at all.”
