Euroleague Basketball joins the Italian and global basketball family in mourning Giorgio Armani, the legendary fashion designer and passionate basketball patron, who passed away on Monday at the age of 91.
Euroleague Basketball mourns Giorgio Armani
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Armani purchased Olimpia Milano in 2008 from Giorgio Corbelli, becoming the club’s sole owner and ushering in a new golden era. Under his stewardship, the team reclaimed its place among Europe’s elite, capturing six Italian League crowns, four Italian Cups, and five Italian Supercups. In 2021, Olimpia Milano returned to the EuroLeague Final Four for the first time since 1992, a milestone achievement in the club’s modern history. Courtside seats in Milan and across the continent often featured Armani himself, a testament to his deep devotion to the game and his players.
“Giorgio Armani was a pioneer, a global cultural leader, and a true friend of our sport,” said Dejan Bodiroga, Euroleague Basketball President. “I am deeply grateful for his invaluable contribution and support to Euroleague Basketball, his passing leaves an irreplaceable void, but his legacy will inspire generations to come.”
Beyond basketball, Armani was a towering figure in global culture. He founded the Armani brand in 1975, revolutionizing the fashion industry and later expanding into entertainment, sport, and luxury hospitality. Known as the pioneer of red-carpet fashion, his influence extended far beyond the runway, shaping how generations experienced elegance and lifestyle. Among countless accolades, he was awarded the Knight Grand Cross of the Order of Merit of the Italian Republic in 2021, the nation’s highest civilian honor.
"Mr. Armani’s showed that basketball could stand proudly alongside art, fashion, and culture, enriching the game with values that transcended the court. We are profoundly grateful for everything he gave to European basketball" stated Paulius Motiejunas, Euroleague Basketball CEO.
Giorgio Armani will be remembered not only as one of the greatest designers of all time, but also as a generous supporter of sport, a visionary leader, and a proud ambassador of Italian excellence.