The Spanish Basketball League (ACB) said in a statement that it "has respected and fulfilled the current title sponsorship agreement with Endesa at every phase of negotiations," according to EL PAÍS. The ACB added that "the league commission including three teams is keeping the negotiations with Endesa open to reach an agreement with the electric company" (EL PAÍS, 2/1). In Madrid, Faustino Sáez reported with the "current contractual situation" between the ACB and its two principal partners -- Endesa and broadcaster Movistar -- the league could have to face a cost of at least €6M ($6.5M) if it replaces Endesa with Movistar. This season, clubs receive €5.5M ($5.9M) from Endesa for the naming rights and €15M ($16.1M) from Movistar, which pays €7M ($7.5M) for the TV rights and €8M ($8.6M) for its sponsorship. If the ACB ends its deal with Endesa, the league could be subject to a lawsuit. As a "recent reference," the ACB paid telecom Orange €2.8M in '15 following a lawsuit in a "scenario similar to this one" (EL PAÍS, 1/31).
